Wallowa County, Oregon
Horace John Butler was born in Louisville, Henry County, Indiana May 28, 1850, and died at his home near Fruita, Oregon, September 16, 1926, aged 76 years, 3 months and 19 days. For several years Mr. Butler had been suffering from the ills usual to old age. His oldest son was drowned December 5, 1923, after which time he failed rapidly, the shock and grief undoubtedly shortening his life.
Born of Quaker parentage he united with that denomination early in life. At the age of 19, he began teaching school, following that occupation for four years. When 21 years of age he left his native home and located at Ozawkie, Kansas, which was then a newly settled country. There he was married in 1881 to Sarah Evaline Keener. Twelve children were born to this union.
In 1889 he migrated to Oregon, living in the Prairie Creek country for two years, then moving to the Imnaha River where he resided continuously until the time of his death. He had been an honorary member of the Modern Woodmen of America for many years. From 1908 until 1924 he served as past master at Fruita, Oregon, when failing health compelled him to resign.
He was a good citizen, always respected by the community in which he lived. A great reader, he kept himself well posted on the current events of his time; a quiet, kindly man, loving most his home and family.
He is survived by his wife and the following children. All of whom lived in Wallowa County; Ellsworth, Paul, Horace, John Jr., Albert and Mrs. Elmer Thompson. Also, one brother and three sisters all living in the east.
Source: Enterprise Record Chieftain, September 23, 1926, Page 2
Contributed by: Sue Wells
