Homer E. Benton

The Wamego Reporter, Thursday, Jan. 9, 1919, Pg. 1

Vol. 10, No. 2

Old Citizen Gone.

Homer E. Benton, one of Wamego’s oldest citizens, old in point of years and residence in Wamego, passed away January 4, 1919, after a long illness. Homer E. Benton was born in Madison County, New York, Jan. 1st, 1832, where he grew to manhood. He left there at the age of 22, and went to Indiana. After following various pursuits for five or six years he settled in Lake Co., and took up farming as a livelihood.

He was united in marriage to Mrs. Ester A. Vinnedge on October 29, 1860. To the union was born four children, all of whom survive him, Mrs. Chas. Dacquet, Mrs. J. C. Boyd, Frank and Ed.

He served his country in the last years of the civil war. In September, 1870 he moved westward with his family and settled in Wamego where he remained until his death which occurred January 4, 1919, age 87 years, and 3 days. He leaves to morn him his aged wife, 4 children, 15 grand children, and 10 great grand children.

Funeral services were held at the home Tuesday, January 7, conducted by Rev. A. E. Peterson, followed by the beautiful G. A. R. service, conducted by the few surviving comrades of O. P. Morton Post. The burial service of the G. A. R. is one of the most beautiful of all the ritualistic services and it was especially impressive on this occasion, Post Commander W. N. Grooms delivering the impressive wording with great feeling for his life time neighbor, friend and comrade.

Services at the grave were conducted by Rev. Peterson, a detail from the Wamego Guard Company acting as pall bearers.

Homer Benton has been a citizen of Wamego for almost fifty years and while in late years he took but little interest in public affairs, in years gone by he was an influential citizen of this community.

He was always a good neighbor and a kind friend and he leaves a host of friends who join in sending condolences to the bereaved wife and children.