Joseph, Wallowa County, Oregon
G.A.R. Pioneer Passes to Rest
John C. Boner Was Last Member of John F. Reynolds Veterans’ Post
John C. Boner, last surviving member of John F. Reynolds post, G.A.R., and pioneer in Wallowa county, passes away Sunday morning at the home of his daughter, Mrs. W. J. Needham, at Joseph. Funeral services were held Tuesday at the Methodist church in Joseph and were attended by a large gathering of friends and residents of the valley who paid last tribute to one of its worthy leaders.
At the church, the services were conducted by Rev. Hall K. Wallis of the Methodist church of Enterprise and former pastor at Joseph, and by Rev. S.E. Smutz, present pastor at Joseph. The American Legion conducted the services at Alder Cemetery where the veteran was laid to rest. Two other veterans of the Civil war were present at the funeral, S.T. Daggett and J.W. Nedrow.
The old G.A.R. flag which Mr. Boner held as last member of the post was bequeathed by him to the American Legion post.
John C. Boner was born February 19, 1846, in Vernon county, Indiana. The migrated that year to Barber county, Kansas, where they lived six years. In the spring of 1878, in company with four other families, they crossed the plains and arrived late that fall in Wallowa valley where they located and remained. They lived on Alder Slope until about 17 years ago when they moved to Joseph. Mrs. Boner passed away five years ago last May.
Ten children were born to the union of whom four are living, Mrs. Alex Gillaspie, Mrs. W.J. Needham, and George Boner of Joseph, and Mrs. Jeff Reese at Union. There are three grandchildren and one great grandchild.
Mr. Boner was a genial man, helpful in the community and always ready to do his full part. He was known for his honor and integrity and strength of character.
Source: Enterprise Record Chieftain, Enterprise, Oregon, October 29, 1931 page 1
Contributed by: Sue Wells
Transcribed by: Belva Ticknor
