At the time of the death of John Lawrence, Feb. 13, 1908. 

He was engaged in the mercantile business, being the senior partner of the hardware firm of Lawrence and Williams of Saguache.

He was a kindhearted man and had many good traits of character which made friends of all who knew him. He was a great friend of the poor and will be greatly missed.

The body arrived from Denver on Sat. and the funeral was conducted from the residence on Sunday by the Benevolent and Pro-tective Order of Elks, of which was a member.

The following was read at the house: “Friends, neighbors and Brother Elks. As we are assembled here to pay our last respects to the memory of our friend and brother, John Lawrence, it is fitting that he should not pass from among us without a tribute to the traits of character that made us love him.”

“For forty’ years, John Lawrence has lived among us, and in all that time no man has left him hungry, or with wants unfilled, whether he sought food, shelter or words of brotherly comfort and advice.”

“The county of Saguache, both as a political division of the state, and as an economic entity, is his most fitting monument. He was largely instrumental in the organization of the county, and he ably and honorably represented the county in the legislative halls of the state. His influence was felt here, but his innate kindness and his ever ready generosity betoken a largeness of heart which made him a citizen of the entire world.

Many to whom he has been as a father or brother who have turned to him with every sorrow, and looked to him for help in every want, will long revere the memory of John Lawrence.”

After this, the procession proceeded to Hillside Cemetery where the honors of the order were paid to the remains; and the Father of Saguache County was quietly laid to rest.

(Wasn’t it something how folks expressed their feelings at such occasions as John Lawrence’s passing many years ago. I enjoy reading early day wedding announcements, obituaries; etc.)