Date : 11 Jan 1916
Location : St. Mary's Cemetery, Rock Valley, IA
James Leo Hayden, son of Mr. and Mrs. John Hayden departed this life Sunday, January 9th, after an illness of two weeks duration, due to an acute attack of pneumonia and in this act of Providence, we are reminded of the uncertainties of life: that the dreams of hope are but shadows: that our hopes and plans find an end. For death ends all so far as this life is concerned. The subject of this brief sketch was born October 18, 1898, and at the time of his death was 22 years, 2 months, and 22 days of age. He was a product of Sioux county and lived here practically all his life. He attended the public school and was in the eleventh grade but never graduated. Later he entered the employ of P.D. Grootes to learn the art of a tinner and plumber and was proficient in his chosen profession. He was endowed with a genial and benign disposition, keen and witty repartee, he possessed excellent social qualities, exemplary in habits. Gifted with a kind nature that admired and followed the good and beautiful and his character was irreproachable. He stood upon the threshold of life, radiant in the sunshine of happiness with bright hopes and happy anticipations for the future. "But his sun went down while it was yet day." There is something so noble, exalted and impressive in the passing away of such a young spirit that we hesitate to call it death. Let all his friends and especially his young and immediate associates treasure fond memories of his noble character. The esteem in which he was held was evidenced by the floral tributes beautiful in design, expressive of the sympathy of his associates and friends. The funeral services were held at the Catholic church Tuesday morning, conducted by the pastor Rev. John O'Rielly, in the presence of many neighbors and sympathizing friends. His remains were tenderly laid to rest in the Catholic cemetery south of town. The parents and brothers who keenly feel the loss they have sustained have the sympathy of their many friends in their hour of extreme sorrow.
Alton Democrat - Jan 15, 1916
