Frank L. Weakly (1854-1927)

the Weakly home

FRANK L. WEAKLY PASSES AWAY

LOWELL'S OLDEST BUSINESS MAN SUCCUMBS LAST SUNDAY MORNING

Frank L. Weakly, who for close to half a century has been actively identified with the business life of Lowell, died at his home in Lowell early Sunday morning. He has been in poor health for the last two or more years, and for the past six months has been confined to the house most of the time.

He was a man who had a host of friends, not only with his business associates, but with the entire community. He took a great pride in his business and up to a few years ago conducted his jewelry store alone, but feeling that he needed help he sold a half interest to Miss Neva Dickinson, who has since that time been his business associate. During the funeral services Tuesday afternoon the business houses were closed in honor of his memory.

Obituary.

Frank L Weakly was born at Dresden, Ohio, February 6, 1854. He died at his home in Lowell on January 23, 1927, at 3:40 a.m. He moved to Lowell with his mother at the age of 17 years. His father died when he was only 7 months old.

He was a graduate of the Chicago College of Optometry and also the Engraving and Watch Making School.

In 1886 he was married to Miss Jennie Death. She departed this life in 1897.*

He united with the Church of Christ of Lowell, Ind., about 1887 and remained a true Christian throughout his entire life.

On March 4, 1900, he was married to Miss Mamie Urch. He was a kind, loving and devoted husband.

He was one of the oldest business men of Lowell, held in high esteem by all and is known throughout the entire country. A member of the Masonic order, the Eastern Star and the Odd Fellows.

He leaves to mourn his death, his wife, one half brothers, N.B. Jahrow, of Orleans, Ind., a foster daughter, Emma Alford, to whom he was very greatly devoted, and many other relatives and friends.

Among his last words were the following: "My one regret is I wish I had worked for Jesus more devotedly all my life; I am on the brink of Eternity and it is the only thing that pays."

Funeral services were held at the home at 2:30 p.m. Tuesday and they were attended by a large number of sorrowing friends, relatives and neighbors. Rev. F.B. Nickerson, assisted by Rev. A.E. Dougherty, conducted the services. Colfax Lodge of Masons, of which he was a member, conducted the funeral services of the order. Interment was made in Lowell cemetery in charge of Undertaker Wm. Sheets. The following acted as pall bearers: E.J. Pixley, E.M. Berg, P.A. Berg, H.L. Baughman, Fred Alexander and L.W. Ragon.

* NOTE -- This article lists 1886 as the year he married his first wife, Jennie Death. Her obituary, however, lists their marriage date as Feb. 16, 1887.

Through the columns of this paper we wish to express our gratitude to all who in any way helped to lighten our burden during the sickness and death of our dear husband and father. Your kindness will never be forgotten. Signed: Mrs. Weakly and Emma.

Those from our of town attending the funeral of F.L. Weakly were: N.B. Jahrow and Mr. and Mrs. Charles Sachs, of Orleans; Howard Shipley, Dresden, Ohio; Mrs. Sadie Moore, Mrs. John Veltman, Grand Haven, Mich.; Mr. and Mrs. George L. Wright, Manteno, Ill.; Allen Alford, Gary; Loren A. Alford, Norfolk, Va.; Mr. Alexander, Miss Cleo Reynolds, Chicago; Mrs. Harry Sanger, Hammond; W.G. Rattray, representing the wholesale jewelry house of Norris, Allister, Ball and Bridges Co., of Chicago, of which Mr. Weakly was their oldest customer.