Obituary

(Daily Journal Sept. 22, 1882)-It is our sad duty to chronicle the death of our esteemed friend and fellow-citizen, Mr. Jacob F. Steiner, which occurred on Saturday Sept. 16, (1882) at his residence, “Hillside Home”, adjoining this city.  The announcement of his death caused universal sorrow in the hearts of our people and his hosts of friends in other parts.  The deceased was prostrated with a severe attack of paralysis in March last, and though suffering very much for some time, recovered sufficiently to give hope that he would finally get well.  But the fond anticipations of his friends were blighted when he received a second stroke a couple months ago, from which, however, he partially recovered, and new hope was given.  On last Sabbath, a week he experienced a third stroke and up to the hour of his death was unconscious much of the time, and it was evident that he would not rally.  Everything that kind hands could do to minister to his wants and to bring about his recovery was done.  But inexorably death, which comes to all in due time, silently stole in upon him and called him hence-out from the presence of his family and friends.

“Then fell upon the house a sudden gloom,” for one who had died who long had been the joy of those around him.  Mr. Steiner was a man who had many friends, and those who knew him best loved him most.  He possessed a noble and generous spirit; none ever went to him in distress and returned empty-handed.  He had a kindly feeling toward everybody, and his amiable disposition made him admired by all with whom he came in contact.  In his demise, the wife has lost a devoted husband, the children a loving and indulgent father, the relatives a true friend, and the community one of its best citizens. 

The deceased was born in Montgomery County, this state, August 25th, 1828, making his age at death, fifty-four years and twenty-two days.  He was of German descent, his grandfather, John Steiner, having emigrated to this country from Wurtemberg, Germany about the year 1792, settling in Bucks County, Pa., where he resided until his death in 1821. In 1822, his father, also named John, moved to Montgomery Co.  He married Miss Christiana Fulmer in 1823.  The union produced two children, a daughter, and the subject of this article.  The daughter married Elias Swartley and died about fourteen years ago.

At the age of 12, Jacob was sent to a commercial school in Philadelphia where he remained three years.  He then attended school at Trappe, Montgomery Co. for three years.  At the age of 18 he moved to Water Street, Huntingdon Co. where he worked in the employ of his cousin.  In February of 1849, he married Miss Elizabeth Harnish and moved to Clearfield County.  He engaged in the lumbering business and in his uprightness and sagacity , with indomitable perseverance and energy , crowned his efforts with success.  He continued in the lumber business, latterly in connection with his son Alton, until a little more than a year ago.  His place in Philipsburg is one of the finest in this section of the state and embraces considerable farming ground, which has always been kept in the very best condition.  The large and beautiful home and the general surroundings indicates the taste and good judgement displayed in the adornment of his premises.  Mr. Steiner leaves behind a wife and eight children, two sons and six daughters.  The names of his children were: Alton G., born May 21, 1851; Ida, born Dec. 2, 1852; Ella M. born July 8, 1854; Harry H., born Sept. 4, 1856; Elizabeth, born Sept. 9, 1857, Ione G., born March 9, 1859, Effie M., born May 26, 1862; Rachel H., born Nov. 24, 1865; and Fanny H., born Dec. 29, 1868, died Jan. 20, 1873.

The funeral took place from his late residence on Tuesday afternoon.  The service was very impressive.  A large circle of friends and relatives were present, many from a distance.  Mr. Steiner had been an active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church.  He was also a member of the Masonic Order, and was buried in Philipsburg Cemetery with customary honors of that body.  “Requiscat in pace.”