Carl Johan "Charles" Holmes (1854-1924)

A week ago last Sunday as Charles Holmes was driving home from Lowell one tug came unhitched and the horses started to run. He was dragged from the buggy and lit on his face and dragged considerable distance before the team stopped. He had one rib broken and his head was badly bruised up. He was taken home and medical aid called. He was confined to the house for several days, but was able to come to town Monday. There were five other persons in the buggy, but none of them were hurt. It was certainly lucky for Charles that he was not more seriously hurt.

FORMER RESIDENT PASSES AWAY

Charles Holmes, who for many years lived on a farm in West Creek township, passed away at the home of his son, C. Oliver Holmes, in Gary Tuesday morning at eight o'clock. He had been enjoying good health, but took seriously sick Monday night.

Mr. Holmes was well and favorably known to our people and his death will be sad news to them. The remains will be taken to Chesterton for burial beside his wife. He was 70 years of age.

Carl Johan Holmes was born in Sweden, June 11, 1854, one of seven children; received the meager schooling necessary to be confirmed in the State Church, his father dying when he was only nine years of age; learned the shoemaker's trade; serveed six years in the Swedish Navy; came to America in 1879; settled in Porter County, near Chesterton, on a farm; was married to Emma Mary Ryden, October 5, 1881. To this union came eight children -- four daughters and four sons.

The death of the wife and mother in February 1901 brought heavy burdens. The infant son died at nine months in the fall of 1901. Mid large farm operations, Mr. Holmes toiled early and late anxious over the children, but active, too, in public and church affairs. Always of frail health he was yet equal to heavy demands upon strength and patience.

With the children in homes of their own or in school, he gave up farming in 1916 to join some of them in Gary. He followed with eager interest outside affairs, achieving wide contacts, many friends, and generous respect. The passing years found him increasingly eager for the end of the journey. After the winter trip to Oregon and Long Beach, to be with the daughter and son, he said frequently, "I am ready to go."

He passed away at the home of his son, C.O. Holmes, at Gary, June 17, 1924. Funeral services were held at First Methodist Church conducted by Rev. Buel E. Horn, Friday, June 20. Interment was made at Chesterton, Ind.