Mr. R.T. Riddlesbarer, the blind and deaf man who made hammocks last season, passed away before noon today (Monday, April 23) after a long illness. All that kind hands and skilled medical science could not stay the summons. Mr. Riddlesbarger came to the home a year ago last March and was held in high esteem by all on account of his noble Christian character. One thing that deserved respect for was that he lost his sight over thirty years ago while taking care of an injured person that had blood poison in his eyes, destroying his sight then later losing his hearing. The deceased had a kind word for all and the writer, who was with him very much, got a great many good thoughts from him. The funeral service will be held at Morning Side, Sioux City, Iowa, and interment will be made in the Graceland cemetery at that place. The deceased came from Mapleton, Iowa to the Home.

#2-26 Apr., 1923 - The Enterprise - Rufus Taylor Riddlesbarger

Rufus Taylor Riddlesbarger, a member of the Crowell Home family, died April 23 after a short illness.

Deceased was born in Fayette, Mo. Oct. 13, 1846, and was therefore past seventy six years of age at the time of his death.

There remains a wife, Sarah K. Riddlesbarger and a son Rufus of Chicago.

Burial was made in Sioux City, the body being prepared for burial and shipped from the Crowell Home Apr. 25th.

(His surname was spelled two ways: Riddlesbarer - Riddlesbarger)

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