Coopersville Observer, January 15, 1904

The sad news was received here last week Saturday that J. A. Maxfield of Perris, California, had been claimed by the Grim Reaper death, on January 9.

Mr. Maxfield’s father, Ira, was one on the first settlers in Lamont. Mr. Maxfield was born and brought up at this place and had many friends in this vicinity who will be pained to hear of his death. He was a brother of O. G. Maxfield and the father of Mrs. F. E. Slater, of this place. Besides these, he leaves a wife, three daughters and one son to mourn his demise.

Ten years ago Mr. Maxfield was obliged to move to California on account of his health. He served in the 6^th Michigan Cavalry during the Rebellion and had always been troubled with week lungs since.

The local G. A. R. and Odd Fellows extend their sympathy to the bereaved family. He was a member of both orders.

From the Perris, California "Progress", of January 14, we glean the following particulars of the death of J. A. Maxfield—

"In the death of J. A. Maxfield, justice of the peace, last Saturday morning, Perris sustained the loss of one of her most honored and esteemed citizens. Having been afflicted with throat trouble for a number of years, a heavy cold contracted while in Pasadena the week before attending the funeral of his friend, J. O. Siebert, was the cause of his sudden death. He had been complaining for several days, but the end came quietly and very suddenly like a peaceful sleep.

"A large number of friends filled the house and yard at the services Sunday afternoon at

2 p. m., conducted by the pastor, Rev. G. F. Mathos. Appropriate music was rendered by the trio, composed of Mrs. A. W. Hook, Miss Alice Merritt and Mr. Revel France. The casket was buried in a wealth of flowers, the tribute of loving friends.

"At the grave a short but impressive ceremony was conducted by members of Riverside Post, No. 118, G. A. R., of which he was a member.

"J. A. Maxfield was born in Lamont, Michigan, March 11, 1842, and died January 9, 1904. His early life was passed in his native village, where he remained until the days of the Civil War, when he hastened to the defense of his country, enlisting in the Sixth Michigan Cavalry. He served faithfully for over a year, when he was attacked by a very severe case of pneumonia, from the effects of which he never fully recovered.

"October 3, 1865, he was married to Louisa Tracy, who was also a native of Lamont, Michigan and to this union were born four girls and one boy. He leaves a wife, five children two brothers and three sisters, besides a host of friends."

(Buried in Perris Valley Cemetery, Riverside, California)