Deere - William Edmund
WILLIAM EDMUND DEERE
Source: Waveland Independent September 17, 1915
William Edmund Deere, son of Joel G. and Mary E. Deere was born at Bluff Mills, Oct. 20, 1856; died at his home in Indianapolis, Sept. 14, 1915. He grew to manhood on his father's farm, assisting with the work in summer and attending school in the winter in the little school house on the farm. While but a boy he had the misfortune to lose his arm, and so he prepared himself for teaching by attending the Normal at Danville, Ind. After a few years spent in teaching he went into business with his father, the firm name being Deere, Hanna & Co. In 1887 this well known mill plant was entirely destroyed by fire. William then began life over again as a stock buyer, continuing in this business until 1898, when with his family he moved to Indianapolis to engage in the commission business, in which he was quite successful until failing health compelled him to retire. W. E. Deere had a host of friends in this and in adjoining counties. He was a manly man, generous and loyal to a marked degree. Though suffering from severe handicaps, both physical and financial, he never complained. His courage and indomitable pluck were the strong points in his character, and his high standard of honor endeared him most to those who knew him best. He leaves a devoted wife, five children, an aged mother, five brothers, and three sisters; one son preceded his father in death. The rest are living in Indianapolis, being Ernest Deere, Mrs. Rollo Billman, Mrs. William Mortimer, Elsie and Hazel Deere. There are four grandchildren. Funeral services were conducted at Freedom church yesterday morning at eleven, by Rev. S. K. Fuson. Interment in Freedom cemetery. - kbz