Surnames: SMITH

----Source: CLARK COUNTY REPUBLICAN & PRESS (Neillsville, Wis.) 02/21/1918

Smith, Francis E. (7 Jan 1898 - 16 Jan 1918)

Francis E. Smith, only son of Charles E. Smith, was born Jan. 7, 1898, at Stitzer, Wis., and in full strength of promising manhood death claimed him. None can measure the sorrow which fill the hearts of the loved ones. He enlisted at Neillsville, Clark County, Wis. on Monday, Dec. 3rd, and went South at once. He died from pneumonia on Jan. 16th at Camp McArthur, Waco, Texas. Cheerful reports were often received from him up to Jan. 6th. After that time only the anxious reports of the telegrams were received until on Jan. 17th. The final report of his death came. Earl, as he was called by all, was an exceptionally bright, brave boy and made friends wherever he went. Had he been spared he doubtless would have hewn his way successfully through life. He leaves to mourn his loss a father, two sisters, Kathleen and Loretta, and many other relatives and friends. Some time we will know why, not now, why a cloud instead of sun is over many a cherished plan. It is truly a consolation to a Christian heart to feel, however dark the scenes of earth May be, that our Heavenly Father ordered all things for the best.

The remains arrived in Lancaster Jan. 21st, and were taken to the home of his uncle, R. J.Sweeney. On Wednesday, Jan. 23rd, funeral services were held at the Catholic Church. Every heart was touched (The rest of my copy was cut off)