SHOAF, Onia Leo
Source: Taken from an old scrapbook
Private Onia Leo Shoaf, eldest son of James L. and Margaret Clore Shoaf was born Dec. 21, 1892 in Sugar Creek Township, Parke County, Indiana In early childhood his parents moved to Fountain Co, where he grew up to manhood. At the age of 16, he became a member of the Baptist Church. Shortly after this time his parents purchased a home in Sugar Creek Twp. Parke County, Indiana and with them made it his home here, except such times as his work called him away thus he was away in Fountain County, Indiana when he answered his country's call to arms to fight for Liberty, humanity and Justice. April 2, 1918 at 4 p.m. he with others left Covington to Ft. Hamilton NY where he remained in training until July 1 from whence he was sent to Ft. Amador, Panama to serve in the Coast Artillery. Here he met his tragic death by drowning November 9 at 9 a.m. at the age of 25 years, 11 months and 18 days. Thus this young man with the prospects of a happy useful life before him is taken from our midst so suddenly. To those who have known Onia it is not necessary to enlarge at length upon the virtues of this noble life. It is suffice to say, that he was industrious, and of amiable lovable disposition loved and respected by all ready to lend a helping hand to those in need of assistance and his ever happy and cheerful disposition gave him a hearty welcome to any company or gathering. Possessing the qualities that are the fundamental principles of good citizenship, honesty, frugality and loyalty, this community and country suffer a heavy loss by the demise of Onia. Anxious to serve his country in her time of need he answered her call and so under the Stars & Stripes he made the one great sacrifice - his life - that others might live. The love and devotion of the deceased for his family was sacred to behold and the bondage of love that existed between this son and his parents, his brothers and sisters could not possibly have been stronger than it was. The endearing terms of papa and mama came from the depth of his heart as was his kindness and affection for his brothers and sister. But death respects not these things and so has entered this most happy household and broken the first link in this family tie. And the hearts of the bereaved are heavy with sorrow and grief. The deceased. leaves to lament his departure his father and mother, three brothers, Ora, Willie and James R. and one sister, Ethel and a grandmother, one sister-in-law, many uncles and aunts and other relatives and a host of friends. May God by Almighty Grace console these mourners and lighten their sorrow. The mortal remains reaches home Dec. 7th and funeral services were held at home by Rev. Albert Tomlinson, December 9 at 10 a.m. Interment at the Lutheran Church near Wallace, Fountain Co, O. M. Davies of Marshal officiating. On account of the prevalence of the influenza only the relatives and nearest neighbors were permitted to attend.