2 January 1897 - Grand Haven Daily Tribune , p. 4
Jacob J. De Spelder - Died in Prime of Life

While the bell of the nation was still pealing their welcome to the new year, the soul of one of Grand Haven’s most popular citizen was taking flight to the spirit world.

At an early hour yesterday morning Jacob J. DeSpelder departed this life. His death was very sudden and unlooked for and the news was received yesterday morning was sorrow all over the city. Mr. DeSpelder had been ill for the past two weeks and while he was confined to his bed much of the time, the sickness was not looked upon a serious ailment. All Thursday evening he appeared well and his talk and manner went to indicate that he was much stronger than he had been. However, early New Year’s morning the illness became serious and Mrs. DeSpelder was awakened. The last attack was very short and in a few minutes the sufferer had breathed his last. Mrs. DeSpelder, grief stricken, summoned her relatives as soon as possible.

Jacob J. DeSpelder was born in this city, June 7, 1860, and with the exception of a few years residence in Chicago, had always resided in Grand Haven. He was one of the town’s popular merchants for a number of years and had a fine grocery business at the present Bee Hive site,. At that time he took an active interest in local affairs and for four years represented the fourth ward in the city council. Leaving the grocery business, Mr.  DeSpelder engaged in other pursuits and for several years was engaged in business in Evanston and Chicago. He moved back to Grand Haven some two years ago and of late has been living on Elliott street. At the time of his death he was connected with the wholesale grocery house of Misner, Hamlen & Co., Muskegon.

Mr.  DeSpelder was united in marriage to Miss Lizzie Everts, and a son four years old survives. One child died but a short time ago. Besides his wife and son, an aged father and mother, besides many other relative and friends will mourn the loss of a truly good man.

The funeral will occur at two p.m. next Monday from the Second Reformed church of which Mr. DeSpelder was a member. Revs. Collier and DeBruyn will conduct the service.