Obit: Lacey, Irving E. (19 Aug 1867 - 23 May 1900)

Contact: stan@wiclarkcountyhistory.org

Surnames: LACEY MYERS ESCH LUDINGTON

----Source: Clark County Republican Press (Neillsville, Wis.) 05/24/1900

Lacey, Irving E. (19 Aug 1867 - 23 May 1900)

Early Wednesday morning the sad intelligence spread about the city that Doctor Lacey had passed away at 6:40 o'clock. Naturally of weak frame and inheriting a tendency to consumption, he had long known that he had but little chance for long life. Three years ago when quite run down in health he spent the winter in Arizona where he recuperated and returned to his practice here. His work was too great for his strength and during the past winter he became considerably worn down. About a month ago he suffered a severe hemorrhage of the lungs, since which time he has gradually failed. Anxious friends and skilled medical attendants did all that love and science could do to stay the hand of death, but all could not avail. Thus passed from our midst one of the rarest of men. He was the soul of honor devoted to science and to his profession, tender as a woman, sacrificing his own ease and comfort, even more, health and strength, for the sake of his patients, and withal a true gentleman with all that word implies. He was a Neillsville, Clark County boy, and Neillsville loved him and was proud of him and long will mourn his early death.

Irving E. Lacy was born at Orford, Rock County, Wis., Aug. 19, 1867 and came to Neillsville with his parents when a small boy. His father was a physician and practiced his profession here until his death. Both parents died while Irving was still young, and he, with his brother Wallace, made their home with their aunt, Mrs. Henry Myers. When still quite young he learned telegraphy in which he became an expert, being considered one of the best operators in the state. He also perfected himself in the art of shorthand, in which he showed equal skill. Through the influence of Dr. Esch, with whom he afterwards practiced, he began the study of medicine. He attended the Bellevue College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York City, from which he graduated with high honors. On coming home he began practice in Loyal, but soon returned to Neillsville and formed a partnership with Dr. Esch, which lasted until he left for Arizona. He was plain, unassuming and unostentatious in his manner, but skillful and far seeing in practice, and won an enviable reputation as a Physician throughout this vicinity.

He was married eight years ago to Carrie Ludington, who survives him.

The funeral will be held at the house today (Thursday) at three o'clock p.m., under the auspices of the Masonic Lodge.