The news of the death of Edwin F. Crowell at 5:45 last Sunday evening came to everyone in town with a weight of sorrow. Not that his death had not been expected for some time from the nature of his disease, but that one so good, so kind, so generous and noble in thought and action should be “called home so early in his career. Consumption, the arch fiend to humanity and the closest friend to Death, took hold of him with all its fierceness and would not let go. Though change of climate, the best of medical attendance, kind nurses and loving relatives and friends done all within their power, yet it would not let go. He lingered long as though even Death were shamed to put out a life of such quiet force and beauty. At last the hour came when the soul, made patient through suffering, gentle through loving ministration, pure through a spotless life, was given the freedom of the upper air. Father and mother, sisters and brothers are not alone in their sorrow for many friends feel deeply their loss.

Edwin F. Crowell was born in Blair, July 6, 1871. His early education was acquired in the public schools here and finally finished at the North-Western University at Evanston, Ill. For three years he kept books in Chicago and there became acquainted with Fred Sercombe with whom he engaged in the general merchandising business at Kennard, Neb.

About a year ago he was warned of lung trouble and soon went to find a healthier climate in the mountains of Colorado. When it became evident that he was failing gradually, he was brought home to bide the time of the Great Destroyer.

Rev. G. H. Main, of Norfolk, formerly pastor here, assisted by Rev. Barton, conducted the funeral services at the residence of C.C. Crowell, on Tuesday, at two o’clock. The remains were laid down for the long rest in the Blair cemetery. We have known Ed, as he was familiarly called, for several years and we recall many kindnesses we have received from the hand that now is still and the heart that has been silenced.

The exact date of death was not listed. That date was learned through Blair Cemetery records.

#2 May 24, 1897 - The Pilot - Edwin F. Crowell

The sad news of the death of Edwin F. Crowell spread through town last evening. While not unexpected yet it comes bringing with it that shock that is always felt when one so promising and in the prime of young manhood is called away. Ed was born in Blair on July 6, 1871. He completed his education at Evanston, Ill., and for three years following he was a bookkeeper in Chicago. After leaving Chicago he opened up, in company with Fred Sercombe, a general merchandise business Jin Kennard where the firm has worked up a prosperous business. About a year ago lung trouble set in and it soon became evident that consumption was developing. The best of medical aid was obtained and every advantage as to climate was made use of, but to no avail. Death came at 5:45 Sunday and the funeral services will be held at the house tomorrow at 2p.m.

~~~Obituaries courtesy of the Nebraska Washington County Genealogical Society. Newspaper clippings on file in the Blair, Nebraska Public Library ~~~

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