----Source: NEILLSVILLE PRESS (Neillsville, Clark County, Wis.) 11/15/1928

Van Fleet, John W. (7 Augl 1853 - 28 OCT 1928)

(Viola, Wis. Exchange)

John William Van Fleet was born at Calwell, Ohio, Aug. 7, 1853, and passed into the other life Sunday, Oct. 28, 1928, at his home in this village (Viola, Wis.) after a few days illness.

Jan. 24, 1874 he was married to Angie Cunningham and to this union were born six children, five girls and one boy, Lizzie, Clara and Ole having died in infancy. Minnie went to her reward Sept. 8, 1925 and Leona, Jan. 25, 1917. Dora is the only child left now and is making her home with her parents and caring for them in the time of need.

Mr. and Mrs. Van Fleet moved to Viola from Neillsville, Clark County, Wis. 12 years ago and the past 11 years Mr. Van Fleet has been Sexton of the Viola Cemetery. Viola has been proud to point to the city of loved ones, that have gone on and thank John Van Fleet for the beauties of the spot. He was untiring in his efforts to beautify the cemetery, and the pride he took in his work will be a monument to him for time to come.

Nine years ago he became a member of the Viola M. E. Church and he and his good wife have been able helpers for the church interests.

Five years ago Mr. and Mrs. Van Fleet celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. In all the 55 years together, John was always kind and affectionate, the thought of home, wife and children always foremost.

He was a social member of the Modern Woodmen Lodge of Viola.

During his time with us he has held offices of trust, as Justice of the Peace and under-sheriff and his great desire was for law enforcement and order. He has always tried to make Viola a better village.

Mr. Van Fleet is survived by his wife, one daughter, two sisters and three brothers, Frank of Viola, Jim and Ben of Calwell, Ohio and the sisters are also of Calwell.

Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon at the M. E. Church, conducted by the pastor, Rev. J. B. Braddock, a large number of friends and relatives being present to pay their last tribute of respect to his memory. Interment was made in the Viola Cemetery.