Steinkirchner, Joseph (1846-1934)

Evening Kansan-Republican obituary: 1934 Jul 21 p. 2

Birth date: 1846 Dec 25

text of obituary:

Joseph Steinkirchner

Joseph Steinkirchner, retired merchant and farmer, passed away at his home at 11:40 this morning of old age complications. Mr. Steinkirchner had been a resident of Newton for 56 years.

The passing of Joe Steinkirchner takes from Newton one of the oldest merchants of the city and a familiar figure from Main street. He opened a meat market here years ago which was recognized as a quality shop even in the early days when such shops were rare. He has seen Main street change from unpaved, muddy streets in winter and dusty streets in summer, board walks and a few frame buildings to the present picture of the business section. Even in the days when he kept his meat market he was interested in farming and this he continued to interest himself in after he retired from the market in 1913, leaving it to his sons, James J. and Clarence F. He loved horses and until a few months ago continued to drive a horse hitched to a light cart.

His wife died two years after he retired from the meat market and his son, James, in 1926 and the loss of these two loved ones was a source of great sorrow to him. He had, however, the comfort of his granddaughter, Ann Steinkirchner, daughter of the late James Steinkirchner and his daughter, Gertrude at home and his son, C. F. Steinkirchner, who lives next door to him.

Mr. Steinkirchner was born December 25, 1846 in Bavaria, Germany. He was married in Bellefonte, Pa., to Anna Crotty and to this union three children were born, two of whom survive. He was the last of his parents' family of four boys and two girls.

The body will be taken from the Sprinker Mortuary to his late home Monday afternoon to await the funeral services which will be held Tuesday morning at 9 o'clock at the Catholic church, Father Beran officiating. His nephews, Joe M., John C., Leo, Ben J. Steinkirchner, his son, Clarence and Ohio Root will act as pall bearers.