Descendants of Peter and Maria Bures

10. Floyd Allen Burres ⁶ (Oscar Ludwich³, Peter F², Peter¹) was born on 22 May 1899 in Riverton, Franklin Co, Nebraska, USA ⁴² ^,59 and died on 14 Jun 1990 in Topeka, Shawnee Co, Kansas, USA ⁵⁹ at age 91.

• He appeared on the 12th Census of the United States on 1 Jun 1900 in Brady Island Precinct, Lincoln Co, Nebraska, USA.⁷¹ The census indicates he lived with his parents in a house, which they rented.

• He appeared on the 13th Census of the United States on 15 Apr 1910 in Doniphan, Hall Co, Nebraska, USA.⁷² The census indicates he lived with his parents in a house, which they rented. The census also indicates he attended school within the last seven and half months, between 1 Sep 1909 and 15 Apr 1910. He spoke English and was able to read and write.

• On 12 Sep 1918, he was described as being of medium height and slender, with brown eyes and dark brown hair, by the Draft Board Registrar in Douglas Co, Kansas, USA.¹⁹²

• On 12 Sep 1918, his permanent home address was Baldwin City, Douglas Co, Kansas, USA, according to his World War I Draft Registration Card.¹⁹²

• On 12 Sep 1918, he listed his occupation as student at Baker University in Baldwin City, Douglas Co, Kansas, USA, according to his World War I Draft Registration Card.¹⁹²

• He appeared on the 14th Census of the United States on 1 Jan 1920 in Baldwin City, Douglas Co, Kansas, USA.⁴² The census indicates he lived with his parents in a home, which they owned (free). The census also indicates he attended school within the last four months, between 1 Sep 1919 and 1 Jan 1920. He spoke English and was able to read and write.

• He received a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree from Baker University in 1920 in Baldwin City, Douglas Co, Kansas, USA.⁶ He was a student at Baker University from 1916 to 1920.

• He worked as a commercial printer in Shawnee Co, Kansas, USA, according to the 1930 census.¹⁹³

• His Social Security Number was 511-01-8568, issued in Kansas (before 1951).⁵⁹ Last known residence: 66604 Topeka, Shawnee Co, Kansas.

Floyd married Eva Nora Thompson,⁶ daughter of Samuel Finley Thompson and Helen Mary M Hoggins, on 11 Apr 1924 in Wilsey, Morris Co, Kansas, USA.⁶ Eva was born on 31 Jan 1896 in Sabetha, Nemaha Co, Kansas, USA ⁵⁹ and died on 10 Dec 1985 in Topeka, Shawnee Co, Kansas, USA ⁵⁹ at age 89.

• They appeared on the 15th Census of the United States on 1 Apr 1930 in Topeka, Shawnee Co, Kansas, USA.¹⁹³ The census indicates they lived in a home, which they owned (valued at $3000), and did not have a radio set. The census also indicates they both spoke English and were able to read and write.

• She appeared on the 12th Census of the United States on 1 Jun 1900 in Marion Township, Nemaha Co, Kansas, USA.¹⁹⁴ The census indicates she lived with her parents on a farm, which they rented.

• She appeared on the 13th Census of the United States on 15 Apr 1910 in Diamond Valley Township, Morris Co, Kansas, USA.¹⁹⁵ The census indicates she lived with her parents on a farm, which they owned (mortgaged). The census also indicates she attended school within the last seven and half months, between 1 Sep 1909 and 15 Apr 1910. She spoke English and was able to read and write.

• She appeared on the 14th Census of the United States on 1 Jan 1920 in Wilsey, Morris Co, Kansas, USA.¹⁹⁶ The census indicates she lived with her widowed mother in a home, which her mother owned (free). The census also indicates she spoke English and was able to read and write.

• Her Social Security Number was 511-48-8826, issued in Kansas (1963).⁵⁹ Last known residence: 66604 Topeka, Shawnee Co, Kansas.

M i. Donald Evan Burres ⁶ was born on 2 Dec 1932 in Topeka, Shawnee Co, Kansas, USA and died on 22 Jun 1933 in Kansas, USA.

11. Dr Paul William Burres ⁶ (Oscar Ludwich³, Peter F², Peter¹) was born on 6 Nov 1902 in Ware, Butler Co, Nebraska, USA,²⁹ ^,42 ^,59 died on 30 Oct 1991 in Kansas City, Wyandotte Co, Kansas, USA ²⁸ ^,59 at age 88, and was buried in Bonner Springs, Wyandotte Co, Kansas, USA.⁸⁰

• He received his Doctor of Theology (Th.D.) degree from Iliff School of Theology. Denver, Colorado. His Master of Arts (M.A.) degree was earned at Northwestern University, his Bachelor of Divinity (B.D.) degree at Garrett Biblical Institute, Evanston, Illinois, and his Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree at Kansas Wesleyan University, Salina, Kansas.¹⁹⁷

• He served as a pastor of the Methodist church in Stephenson Co, Illinois, USA, according to the 1930 census.¹⁹⁸

• During World War II, he served as an Army Chaplain, and spent 13 months in Europe. As a member of the 101st Ordnance Battalion, he participated in five campaigns with the First U.S. Army in France, Belgium, and Germany.¹⁹⁷ ^,199

• On 23 Jun 1945 the Germany edition of The Stars and Stripes published his letter to the editor in the Mail Call section.

Runaround

"Our battalion has been able to draw no athletic equipment since arrival on the Continent on D plus 1. Before V-E Day the 1st Army (for which we supplied ammo from arrival to V-E Day) athletic officer told us it was being held for us until the great day came. When we went for it we were told none was available. Then 1st Army became inoperative and we were transferred to 9th Army. Ninth Army first told us it had nothing for 1st Army units, later said some equipment was on the way for us. When we went to get it we were told we'd have to get it through XIXth Corps. Nineteenth Corps told us 9th Army would have to give it to us. Now 9th Army is inoperative and we are to go to 7th Army. In other words, we are just a bastard outfit no one will supply.

We have good ball teams which are reduced to one softball with string bursting from the covering. We have 1,000 men who wish to know why 1st Army troops who have done their part can't have some equipment to carry on an athletic program.
-- Chaplain Paul W. Burres, 101st Ord. Bn.¹⁹⁹

• He served as minister of the Wesley Methodist Church in 1955 in Kansas City, Wyandotte Co, Kansas, USA.²⁰⁰

• In 1961 Concordia Publishing House of Saint Louis, Saint Louis City, Missouri, USA published his book titled Downstream: A Modern Story of Men and a River. A historical novel based on the floodings of the Kaw River through history, and especially on the great flood of July 1951, which devastated large areas of suburban Kansas City, Kansas.¹⁹⁷

• His obituary was published in the Kansas City Star on 1 Nov 1991 in Kansas City, Jackson Co, Missouri, USA.⁸⁰

The Rev. Paul William Burres

"The Rev. Paul William Burres, 88, Kansas City, Kan., died Oct. 30, 1991, in Bethany Medical Center.

Mr. Burres was a minister in the Kansas East Conference of the United Methodist Church for 30 years, retiring in 1968. He was pastor of the Stephens Memorial United Methodist Church in 1941-42; of the Burlington (Kan.) United Methodist Church from 1945 to 1950; of the Wesley United Methodist Church in Kansas City, Kan., from 1950 to 1957; of the Holton (Kan.) United Methodist Church from 1957 to 1964; and of the First United Methodist Church in Baxter Springs, Kan., from 1964 to 1968. He was a missionary in Costa Rica in 1968 to 1970.

He was a 1924 graduate of Kansas Wesleyan University; received a bachelor's of divinity degree from Garrett Theological Seminary, Evanston, Ill., in 1928; received a master's degree at Northwestern University in 1929; and received a doctorate in theology at the Iliff School of Theology, Denver, in the 1940s.

He was former chairman of the Vaughn-Trent Fund in Bonner Springs. He was an Army chaplain in World War II and was a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars. He was born in Weir, Kan., and moved to this area in 1941. Survivors include his wife, Marjorie Burres of the home; a daughter, Lornita M. Garrett, Eudora, Kan.; a grandson; and two great-grandchildren.

Services will be at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Bonner Springs United Methodist Church; burial in the Bonner Springs Cemetery.

Friends may call from 7 to 8 p.m. today at the Alden-Harrington Chapel, Bonner Springs. The family suggests contributions to the Bonner Springs United Methodist Church memorial fund."
(Kansas City Star, 1729 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108-1413, USA.)

• He was buried at the Bonner Springs Cemetery in Bonner Springs, Wyandotte Co, Kansas, USA.⁸⁰

Paul married Marjorie Elenor Baker,¹ ^,28 daughter of Thos Henry Baker and Mary Eleanor Butler, on 21 Aug 1925 in Brownell, Ness Co, Kansas, USA.¹ ^,28 Marjorie was born on 25 Jan 1902 in Markesan, Green Lake Co, Wisconsin, USA,⁵⁹ died on 21 Mar 1996 in Gardner, Johnson Co, Kansas, USA ⁵⁹ at age 94, and was buried in Bonner Springs, Wyandotte Co, Kansas, USA.²⁰¹

• They appeared on the 15th Census of the United States on 1 Apr 1930 in Florence Township, Stephenson Co, Illinois, USA.¹⁹⁸ The census indicates they lived in a home, which they rented ($10 per month), and had a radio set. The census also indicates they both spoke English and were able to read and write.

• Marjorie and Paul co-authored and published a book titled Christmas Cards Speak: The Meaning and Symbolism Expressed on Christmas Cards.²⁰²

• She appeared on the 13th Census of the United States on 15 Apr 1910 in Metomen Township, Fond du Lac Co, Wisconsin, USA.²⁰³ The census indicates she lived with her parents in a house, which her grandparents owned (free). The census also indicates she attended school within the last seven and half months, between 1 Sep 1909 and 15 Apr 1910.

• She appeared on the 14th Census of the United States on 1 Jan 1920 in Metomen Township, Fond du Lac Co, Wisconsin, USA.²⁰⁴ The census indicates she lived with her parents in a home, which they owned (mortgaged). The census also indicates she attended school within the last four months, between 1 Sep 1919 and 1 Jan 1920. She spoke English and was able to read and write.

• Her Social Security Number was 509-10-8789, issued in Kansas (before 1951).⁵⁹ Last known residence: 66102 Kansas City, Wyandotte Co, Kansas.

• Her obituary was published in the Kansas City Star on 24 Mar 1996 in Kansas City, Jackson Co, Missouri, USA.²⁰¹

MARJORIE E. BURRES

"Marjorie E. Burres, 94, Gardner, KS, (formerly of Bonner Springs, KS) passed away Thursday, March 21, 1996, at Bedford Manor Nursing Home, Gardner, KS. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, March 26, at the Bonner Springs United Methodist Church; burial in Bonner Springs Cemetery. Friends may call 6-8 p.m. Monday, March 25, at the Alden-Harrington Funeral Home, Bonner Springs, KS.

Memorial contributions may be made to Bonner Springs United Methodist Church.

(Arrangements: Alden-Harrington Funeral Home)"
(Kansas City Star, 1729 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108-1413, USA.)

• She was buried at the Bonner Springs Cemetery in Bonner Springs, Wyandotte Co, Kansas, USA.²⁰¹

F i. Lornita Mae Burres was born on 29 Jul 1933 in Topeka, Shawnee Co, Kansas, USA ¹ ^,59 and died on 18 May 1997 in Douglas Co, Kansas, USA ⁵⁹ ^,205 at age 63. (Adopted)

• Her Social Security Number was 515-32-0386, issued in Kansas (1951-1952).⁵⁹ Last known residence: 66025 Eudora, Douglas Co, Kansas.

• Her obituary was published in the Kansas City Star on 20 May 1997 in Kansas City, Jackson Co, Missouri, USA.²⁰⁵

LORNITA MAE GARRETT

"Lornita Mae Garrett, 63, rural Eudora, KS, died Sunday, May 18, 1997, at her home after an extended illness. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, May 22, at First United Methodist Church, Baldwin City, KS, with the Rev. David Watson officiating.

Cremation will follow the services.

Mrs. Garrett will lie in state 9 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Wednesday, at Lamb-Roberts Funeral Home, Baldwin City.

She will also lie in state after 9 a.m. Thursday until service time, at the church, where the family will receive friends 9:30-10:30 a.m. Thursday. Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Baldwin City, and may be sent in care of Lamb-Roberts Funeral Home, P.O. Box 64, Baldwin City, KS 66006."
(Kansas City Star, 1729 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108-1413, USA.)

12. Ferne L Bures ⁴⁹ ^,153 (Alfred Edward³, Peter F², Peter¹) was born on 24 Feb 1903 in Nebraska, USA,⁴⁹ ^,59 died on 2 Jul 1984 in Hastings, Adams Co, Nebraska, USA (Mary Lanning Memorial Hospital, 715 N St Joseph Ave, Hastings, NE 68901-4497, USA)⁵⁹ ^,153 at age 81, and was buried in Hastings, Adams Co, Nebraska, USA.¹⁵³ Another name for Ferne was Fern L Bures.

• She appeared on the 13th Census of the United States on 15 Apr 1910 in Creswell Precinct, Lane Co, Oregon, USA.¹²⁶ The census indicates she lived with her parents in a house, which they rented. The census also indicates she attended school within the last seven and half months, between 1 Sep 1909 and 15 Apr 1910. She spoke English and was able to read and write.

• She appeared on the 14th Census of the Unites States on 1 Jan 1920 in Bethany, Lancaster Co, Nebraska, USA.⁴⁹ The census indicates she lived with her parents in a home, which they owned (mortgaged). The census also indicates she attended school within the last four months, between 1 Sep 1919 and 1 Jan 1920. She spoke English and was able to read and write.

• She attended Cotner College in 1921 in Bethany, Lancaster Co, Nebraska, USA, according to the 14 Aug 1921 issue of the Sunday State Journal (Lincoln, Nebraska).²⁰⁶

In University Circles

COTNER COLLEGE.

"Fern Bures, a student of Cotner, returned to her home this week from her vacation spent at Angus, Neb."

• Her Social Security Number was 507-24-3925, issued in Nebraska (before 1951).⁵⁹ Last known residence: 68901 Hastings, Adams Co, Nebraska.

• Her obituary was published in the Hastings Tribune on 3 Jul 1984 in Hastings, Adams Co, Nebraska, USA.¹⁵³

Ferne Schlachter

"Ferne L. Schlachter, 81, of 854 Creighton Ave. died Monday in Mary Lanning Memorial Hospital.

Services will be Thursday at 2 p.m. in First St. Paul's Lutheran Church with the Rev. Martin B. Lingwall officiating. Burial will be in Parkview Cemetery.

Mrs. Schlachter had been a Hastings resident since 1927. She was a member of First St. Paul's Lutheran Church, the Eagles Auxiliary and the Hastings Eagles Camping Club. She was married to Carl Schlachter April 20, 1927.

Surviving are her husband, Carl of Hastings; one daughter; four grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Memorials may be given to the First St. Paul's Lutheran Church Radio Ministry or the Heart Fund.

Butler-Volland Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements."
(Hastings Tribune, 908 W 2nd St, Hastings, NE 68901-5063, USA.)

• Her obituary was published.

SCHLACHTER
THURSDAY AT 2 P.M.

"SCHLACHTER, Ferne L., of 854 Creighton Ave., passed away Monday in Mary Lanning Hospital, 81 years old. Survived by her husband, Carl; one daughter; four grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; preceded in death by her son, Robert E. Schlachter; her parents, A. E. and Lula Tooker Bures; one brother, Joyce Bures; one sister, Faye Bures. Services will be Thursday at 2 p.m. in First St. Paul's Lutheran Church with Rev. Martin B. Lingwall officiating. Burial in Parkview Cemetery. Memorials may be given to First St. Paul's Lutheran Radio Ministry or the Heart Fund."

• She was buried at the Parkview Cemetery in Hastings, Adams Co, Nebraska, USA.¹⁵³
(Parkview Cemetery, 1246 N Elm Ave, Hastings, NE 68901-3230, USA.)

Ferne married Carl Robert Schlachter,¹⁴¹ son of Robert C Schlachter and Anna M, on 20 Apr 1927.¹⁵³ Carl was born on 13 Mar 1906 in Glenvil, Clay Co, Nebraska, USA,⁵⁹ ^,207 died on 16 Feb 1989 in Hastings, Adams Co, Nebraska, USA (Mary Lanning Memorial Hospital, 715 N St Joseph Ave, Hastings, NE 68901-4497, USA)⁵⁹ ^,207 at age 82, and was buried in Hastings, Adams Co, Nebraska, USA.²⁰⁷

• They appeared on the 15th Census of the United States on 1 Apr 1930 in West Blue Township, Adams Co, Nebraska, USA.²⁰⁸ The census indicates they lived on a farm, which they rented, and had a radio set. The census also indicates they both were able to read and write.

• He appeared on the 14th Census of the United States on 1 Jan 1920 in Hanover Township, Adams Co, Nebraska, USA.²⁰⁹ The census indicates he lived with his parents on a farm, which they owned (mortgaged). The census also indicates he attended school within the last four months, between 1 Sep 1919 and 1 Jan 1920. He spoke English and was able to read and write.

• He worked as a farmer (general farm) in West Blue Township, Adams Co, Nebraska, USA, according to the 1930 Census.²⁰⁸

• His Social Security Number was 505-16-0102, issued in Nebraska (before 1951).⁵⁹ Last known residence: 68901 Hastings, Adams Co, Nebraska.

• His obituary was published in the Hastings Tribune on 17 Feb 1989 in Hastings, Adams Co, Nebraska, USA.²⁰⁷

Carl Schlachter

"Carl Robert Schlachter, 82, of 854 Creighton Ave. died Thursday, Feb. 16, 1989 in Mary Lanning Memorial Hospital.

Services will be at 2 p.m. Monday in First St. Paul's Lutheran Church with the Rev. Harold Stromer officiating. Burial will be in Parkview Cemetery.

Mr. Schlachter was born March 13, 1906, in Glenvil. He farmed in the Glenvil area for a short time and was a mechanic most of his live.

He retired as shop foreman from Kansas-Nebraska Natural Gas Co. in 1971 after 24 years of service. He married Fern L. Bures April 20, 1927. She died July 2, 1984.

He was a member of First St. Paul's Lutheran Church and the Eagles Lodge.

Survivors are one daughter; one sister, Florence Kimle of Kenesaw; four grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

Memorials may be given to First St. Paul's Lutheran Church Radio Ministry."
(Hastings Tribune, 908 W 2nd St, Hastings, NE 68901-5063, USA.)

• His obituary was published.

SCHLACHTER
MONDAY AT 2 P.M.

"SCHLACHTER, Carl Robert, of 854 Creighton Avenue passed away Thursday, February 16, 1989, in Mary Lanning Hospital, 82 years old. Survived by one daughter; four grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; one sister, Florence Kimle of Kenesaw. Preceded in death by his parents; his wife; one son, Robert E.; one brother. Services will be Monday at 2 p.m. in First St. Paul's Lutheran Church with Rev. Harold D. Stromer officiating. Burial in Parkview Cemetery. Memorials may be given to First St. Paul's Lutheran Church Radio Ministry."

• He was buried at the Parkview Cemetery in Hastings, Adams Co, Nebraska, USA.²⁰⁷
(Parkview Cemetery, 1246 N Elm Ave, Hastings, NE 68901-3230, USA.)

M i. Robert Eugene Schlachter was born on 11 Jun 1937,⁵⁹ died on 7 Mar 1984 near Laurel, Cedar Co, Nebraska, USA ⁵⁹ ^,210 at age 46, and was buried in Hastings, Adams Co, Nebraska, USA.²¹⁰ The cause of his death was an auto accident.²¹⁰ Another name for Robert was Bob Schlachter.

• His Social Security Number was 506-40-1073, issued in Nebraska (1952).⁵⁹ Last Benefit: 68901 Hastings, Adams Co, Nebraska.

• His obituary was published in the Hastings Tribune on 8 Mar 1984 in Hastings, Adams Co, Nebraska, USA.²¹⁰

Robert Schlachter

"Robert E. Schlachter, 46, of 1932 W. 11th St. died Wednesday in an auto accident near Laurel.

Services will be Saturday at 10 a.m. at First St. Paul's Lutheran Church with the Rev. Robert L. Hansen officiating. Burial will be in the Parkview Cemetery.

Mr. Schlachter was a lifelong Hastings resident. He served in the Army from 1957 to 1959 and was an insurance salesman for Lewer Insurance Agency of Kansas City, Mo. He was a member of First St. Paul's Lutheran Church.

Surviving are his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Carl Schlachter of Hastings.

Arrangements are under the direction of Butler-Volland Funeral Home."
(Hastings Tribune, 908 W 2nd St, Hastings, NE 68901-5063, USA.)

• He was buried at the Parkview Cemetery in Hastings, Adams Co, Nebraska, USA.²¹⁰
(Parkview Cemetery, 1246 N Elm Ave, Hastings, NE 68901-3230, USA.)

13. Grace Serini Cowan ²⁸ (Lucretia R Bures³, Peter F², Peter¹) was born on 27 Mar 1906 in Deweese, Clay Co, Nebraska, USA ⁵¹ ^,59 ^,163 and died on 27 Apr 2001 in Redwood City, San Mateo Co, California, USA ⁵⁹ ^,163 at age 95.

• She appeared on the 13th Census of the United States on 15 Apr 1910 in Fairfield Township, Clay Co, Nebraska, USA.¹⁵⁸ The census indicates she lived with her parents in a house, which they owned (mortgaged).

• She appeared on the 14th Census of the United States on 1 Jan 1920 in Edgar, Clay Co, Nebraska, USA.⁵¹ The census indicates she lived with her parents in a home, which they owned (free). The census also indicates she attended school within the last four months, between 1 Sep 1919 and 1 Jan 1920. She spoke English and was able to read and write.

• She graduated from Deweese High School (Class of 1925) in 1925 in Deweese, Clay Co, Nebraska, USA.

• Her Social Security Number was 508-28-4106, issued in Nebraska (before 1951).⁵⁹ Last known residence: 94061 Redwood City, San Mateo Co, California.

Grace married Glen Augustine Roe,¹⁶³ son of Albert Anderson Roe and Isadora McNamara, on 26 Nov 1927 in Holyoke, Phillips Co, Colorado, USA.¹⁶⁴ The marriage ended in divorce on 21 Feb 1940. Glen was born on 17 Aug 1902 in Imperial, Chase Co, Nebraska, USA,⁵⁹ ^,163 died in Mar 1977 in Imperial, Chase Co, Nebraska, USA ⁵⁹ ^,163 at age 74, and was buried in 1977 in Imperial, Chase Co, Nebraska, USA.¹⁶³ ^,211

• They have conflicting marriage information of about 1927 in Nebraska, USA.¹⁶³ ^,211

• They appeared on the 15th Census of the United States on 1 Apr 1930 in Grant, Perkins Co, Nebraska, USA.²¹² The census indicates they lived in a home, which they rented ($15 per month), and did not have a radio set. The census also indicates they both spoke English and were able to read and write.

• He appeared on the 13th Census of the United States on 15 Apr 1910 in Logan Precinct, Chase Co, Nebraska, USA.²¹³ The census indicates he lived with his parents on a farm, which they owned (free).

• He worked as a farm laborer in Chase Co, Nebraska, USA, according to the 1920 census.²¹⁴

• He appeared on the 14th Census of the United States on 1 Jan 1920 in Logan Precinct, Chase Co, Nebraska, USA.²¹⁴ The census indicates he lived with his parents on a farm, which they owned (free). The census also indicates he was able to read and write.

• He worked as a laborer on public roads in Perkins Co, Nebraska, USA, according to the 1930 census.²¹²

• His Social Security Number was 507-16-9656, issued in Nebraska (before 1951).⁵⁹ Last known residence: 69033 Imperial, Chase Co, Nebraska.

• He was buried at the Mount Hope Cemetery in Imperial, Chase Co, Nebraska, USA in 1977.¹⁶³ ^,211

M i. James Cowan Roe ¹⁶³ was born on 3 Sep 1928 in Champion, Chase Co, Nebraska, USA,¹⁶⁴ ^,215 died on 9 Aug 1977 in San Diego Co, California, USA ²¹⁵ at age 48, and was buried in 1977 in Los Angeles, Los Angeles Co, California, USA.¹⁶³ ^,211

• He appeared on the 15th Census of the United States on 1 Apr 1930 in Grant, Perkins Co, Nebraska, USA.²¹² The census indicates he lived with his parents in a home, which they rented ($15 per month), and did not have a radio set.

• His Social Security Number was 506-24-9260, issued in Nebraska (before 1951).⁵⁹

• He was buried at the Los Angeles National Cemetery in Los Angeles, Los Angeles Co, California, USA in 1977.¹⁶³ ^,211 Buried at: Columbarium, Section 317, Row E, Site 8.
(Los Angeles National Cemetery, 950 S Sepulveda Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90049-3456, USA.)

M ii. Robert Glen Roe ¹⁶³ ^,216 was born on 17 Dec 1929 in Champion, Chase Co, Nebraska, USA,⁵⁹ ^,164 died on 20 Sep 1964 in Colorado, USA ⁵⁹ ^,163 ^,216 at age 34, and was buried in Edgar, Clay Co, Nebraska, USA.²¹⁶ Another name for Robert was Robert H Roe.¹⁶³

• His Social Security Number was 506-30-4742, issued in Nebraska (before 1951).⁵⁹

• He was buried at the Edgar Cemetery in Edgar, Clay Co, Nebraska, USA.²¹⁶ Block 9, Lot 1, Grave 14.

F iii. Claralyn Grace Roe ¹⁶³ was born on 9 Apr 1933 in Imperial, Chase Co, Nebraska, USA, died on 2 Jan 1934 in Imperial, Chase Co, Nebraska, USA, and was buried in 1934 in Imperial, Chase Co, Nebraska, USA.¹⁶³ ^,211 The cause of her death was meningitis.¹⁶³ Another name for Claralyn was Clara Lynn Roe.

• She was buried at the Mount Hope Cemetery in Imperial, Chase Co, Nebraska, USA in 1934.¹⁶³ ^,211

F iv. Velma Fern Roe ²¹⁷ was born on 18 May 1935 in Imperial, Chase Co, Nebraska, USA ⁵⁹ and died on 22 Jun 2004 in Roseville, Placer Co, California, USA ⁵⁹ ^,217 at age 69.

• Her Social Security Number was 507-54-6437, issued in Nebraska (1959-1960).⁵⁹ Last known residence: 95660 North Highlands, Sacramento Co, California.

F v. Audrey Chastain Roe ²¹⁷ was born on 20 Jun 1937 in Deweese, Clay Co, Nebraska, USA ⁵⁹ ^,218 and died on 28 Apr 1997 in San Mateo Co, California, USA ⁵⁹ ^,218 at age 59. Another name for Audrey was Chastaine Roe.

• Her Social Security Number was 508-40-4671, issued in Nebraska (1952-1953).⁵⁹ Last known residence: 94063 Redwood City, San Mateo Co, California.

Grace next married Lawrence A Davis,¹⁶³ son of William Clinton Davis and Sarah Etta Gross, on 20 Dec 1946 in Mankato, Jewell Co, Kansas, USA.¹⁶⁴ Lawrence was born on 27 Apr 1903 in Nebraska, USA,⁵⁹ ^,163 died on 21 Oct 1989 in Congress, Yavapai Co, Arizona, USA ⁵⁹ ^,211 at age 86, and was buried in 1989.²¹¹ Another name for Lawrence was Tiny Davis.¹⁶⁴

• His Social Security Number was 505-03-8541, issued in Nebraska (before 1951).⁵⁹ Last known residence: 85332 Congress, Yavapai Co, Arizona.

F i. Grace Alene Davis ¹⁶⁴ was born on 6 Aug 1947 in Hastings, Adams Co, Nebraska, USA and died on 6 Aug 1947.

14. Frances Marian Cowan ²⁸ (Lucretia R Bures³, Peter F², Peter¹) was born on 29 Apr 1908 in Deweese, Clay Co, Nebraska, USA,⁵¹ ^,59 died on 21 Dec 2000 in Palmer, Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Alaska, USA (Palmer Pioneer Home, 250 E Fireweed Ave, Palmer, AK 99645-6699, USA)⁵⁹ at age 92, and was buried on 29 Apr 2001 in Wasilla, Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Alaska, USA. The cause of her death was heart failure.

General Notes:

Frances Marian Cowan-Dinkel
Remembers

November 1998

"On June 8, 1986, we had a video tape made of some early days. A grandson said to me, 'I guess we'll get a tape made from it', so I think it is time I start writing what so many people have asked me to do.

I was born in Deweese, Nebraska, on April 29, 1908. Dad was a country doctor. Mom was almost a graduate nurse. (She stopped 6 weeks short of graduating to take care of her mother.) I was the second of a family of five. I was named Frances Marian, which was to be my name no matter what sex. The spelling would just be changed. I don't know where the Frances came from, but Marian was a family name.

I was a frail little thing and nothing agreed with me, so the folks moved to Arkansas thinking I would do better. That wasn't better, so Dad finally moved to Belvidere, Nebraska. It was an ordinary childhood and sister Dorothy Lyn and brother Ward Harper were added to the family. I started school there with my older sister Grace. Everything was fine till 5th grade and the roof blew off the schoolhouse. We were then schooled in various places. Grace and I were in a classroom that was an undertaker's store room.

By this time we had built a new house and Dad had an office downtown in Belvidere. The school district did not have the money to repair the building or build a new one. Dad was a stickler for schooling so he moved back to Deweese. He couldn't find housing there at once so we lived in Edgar just 10 miles away. Dad did not commute only coming home on weekends.

We spent one year in Edgar where Grace and I were in 6th grade. That was the only place I ever had a failing grade. How I hated that red grade on my report card.

I remember Dad driving a buggy for all his house calls. He had 3 horses and changed off regularly. The horses names were Donna, Irene and Tony.

After a year in Edgar we moved back to Deweese, where Dad was in practice. In 1921 a sister ... was born. By this time Dad had a car but he always had trouble stopping. The car didn't understand 'whoa'.

Grace and I graduated from high school in 1925 in a class of seven, 2 boys and 5 girls. The last year in high school, we had to decide whether to take a third year in math or Latin. We ended up with 'Cucero'. Only the two boys and I voted for math. We didn't have many electives. The courses we were given were preparing us for college entrance.

Grace and I both went to Peru Normal and Teachers College. Normal Training was a high school course in many schools, but Deweese was too small for that. We both attended Peru in 1925 & 1926. Then I taught a country school for two years and went back to college with sister Lyn.

Dad died in the summer of 1929 and I had gotten a teaching job in Lusk, Wyoming. A country school with six kids in six different grades. That was harder work than 21 kids in all eight grades. That's where I met your Father and we were married, February 24, 1930. I had to quit teaching, as married women did not teach in those days.

After we were married, we moved to Hay Springs, Nebraska where your Dad had been raised. We settled on a farm. We had a late wedding shower that was different and really appreciated. Nobody had money in those days so each family that came, brought a chicken. One brought a setting hen on eggs. Chickens were all sizes and colors but they laid eggs.

We were really share croppers. The owner of the farm furnished all the seed, etc. and we were to get a share of the crops. ... was born there. We didn't make any money, so Dad got a job at another ranch where we were paid $30.00 a month - had a two room cabin to live in and all the milk we could use. That is where ... was born. (Babies were all born at home in those days.)

We lived in Hay Springs, Nebraska where ... and ... were born. It was in the '30's, jobs, even farm jobs were scarce and we didn't have money to rent a farm or even buy equipment. Dad got a job at Silver Springs ranch at Lusk, where he worked for $18.00 per month and his board and room and I went home to Mom. Francis Harold was born. Sister Lyn named him Francis Harold, but we always called him Lad. That spring, Dad got a raise to $25.00 per month and a house to live in, so he came when Lad was nine days old and we went back to Lusk.

The house we lived in was at Silver Springs, north of Lusk. No windows and lots of pack rats, but we were together again. Then before winter, Dad got a job running a ranch where we would get half the calf crop. We could milk all the old range cows we wanted and had a few chickens so we had cream and eggs to sell. I don't remember the price of cream, but eggs sold for six cents a dozen. We did eat eggs and milk but needed to sell things to have sugar and other staples. We took wheat to the mill to be ground into flour. This farm/ranch was north of Lusk at 16 or 17 miles, halfway between Lusk and Lance Creek, an oil town?

... was born at that place but the owner was losing the place, so we moved to a house (shack) with 2 rooms, kitchen and bedroom.

By that time we were in the great depression and drought. No feed for livestock so the government bought up the livestock. Sheep sold for $3.00 a piece and great flocks were driven into ravens and killed. Pigs were slaughtered and left to lay. A prime steer brought $20.00 per head, other brought $8.00 and calves were $4.00. Most of them were shot on the place and were left to lay there. We were allowed to butcher one calf. Grandpa Dinkel was there at the time, that was when ... was born. It was August and hot so grandpa canned the meat. Dad drove the cattle the government kept to Lusk, 17 miles away. Grandpa then took us to town to pick up Dad. Dad turned the horse loose and he was home before we were.

The next day ... was born. I always said it was because of the beer I drank with grandpa. While we were waiting for Dad we went into a café and grandpa and I had a beer. Dad wouldn't even drink a beer. That is when we moved to the house where ... was born.

Dad had acquired four work horses and we had a bunch of turkeys and 20 bum lambs that were either given to us or we paid 50 cents a piece for them. We had two milk cows. Dad did get some work with the team of horses as the government was building dams and dikes to hold water and planting trees along the roadsides. There were various organizations to help in the depression, such as the Civil Conservation Corps (CCC) or Work Project Administration (WPA). I have forgotten the names of others. ... was born on June 29th, 1936. Sister ... was with us that summer.

... was 15 years old and Mom was having a hard time with her. She spent June, July and part of August with us. I could tell you lots of stories but I'll talk about the time we made root beer. It was terribly hot and the jars were beginning to break where we had them stored under the bed. We decided to try to save them so we took the child's wagon and one cream can and went over a hill and down into a valley where there was a spring with cold water. As we put the jars into the cold water they began to break so we drank root beer till we couldn't hold any more, filled our cream can with water and left what jars didn't break at the spring. We hauled much of our drinking water from there. When I needed to wash, Dad would take horses and the wagon and cans and go to a neighbor for water.

One late August, Saturday after sister ... had gone home, we made our usual trip to town. In those days every one did their shopping on Saturday. They took their eggs and cream in and visited with their neighbors. There was always a Saturday matinee at the local theater. I think it was a western, so we decided to go. When we came out we did some shopping and a couple places people told us there was a man in a brown suit looking for us. The only person we could think of with a brown suit was grandpa Dinkel but they said it wasn't him. We decided if they wanted to see us very bad, they would find us. The following Monday, Dad took the rifle and the saddle horse out to round up the horses and if he was lucky he might see a deer.

While he was out a U.S. Government car drove into the yard. He wanted to see both of us but wouldn't tell me anything till Dad came in. When Dad did come in with a whoop and a holler with the horses, I was afraid he might have killed a deer. We were in the reserve, so it would be a federal offense to shoot a deer.

The government agent said 'did you get one?' We went into the house and Stu Campbell asked if we would like to go to Alaska. He talked to us for several hours. He told us the country agent had sent our name in as good candidates. He told us we probably were very acceptable except the normal size family they liked was four children. Smart aleck me, I told him we weren't going to knock one in the head like they did the pigs. He said 'with your spunk, you will make it.' We were to pay our own way and we signed our contract. We had to have complete physicals too and were to be ready to go in mid October.

School started early so ... was in school before we had our sale. We were really busy - getting rid of our livestock - trying to figure what to keep and what to sell. I don't remember but I think we could take 1,000 pounds of freight. We weren't told anything much but knew when we got to Alaska we would have a house to live in and a $30,000.00 debt. Before we started packing we went in to have our physical. Old Doc Reckling really gave us a good going over. He had us both take off our clothes and gave us the works. When the nurse came in to draw blood from Dad he fainted dead away. We always kidded him because it was a female nurse and he didn't like being exposed. No we weren't given gowns to put on. We passed our physicals, but the doctor said I had a heart murmur. I didn't ask questions so I worried for years about the heart murmur wondering how Dad would take care of the kids alone if something happened to me. What a waste of time worrying.

So, now we started packing. It was a chore as we had no idea what to take, so things went in two piles. Do we or don't we. I put my sewing machine in the do we pile and Dad put his old saddle in the same pile. Of course when we got here we knew they were in the wrong pile. I could have a new Singer and Dad never used the saddle. We left lots of our wedding presents that we wished we had brought with us.

After the sale and the packing we were ready to go we received a telegram telling us not to proceed to Seattle until we had further word from them. We didn't really know what to do, but move in to Lusk in a cabin camp. We had one room for seven of us. We sold our car. The room cost us $40 a month. We put ... in the Lusk town school and lived out of suitcases.

... went everyday to school for about two weeks coming home at noon for lunch as the school was only about two blocks from where we were living (existing). We thought everything was fine until the teacher contacted us to see why ... wasn't in school. It seemed the kids teased ... so much she played hooky and would go about halfway to school where she could see when school was out and she fooled us all that time. We took her out of school. Time dragged on and our money dwindled until the first of February 1937 when we were told to proceed to Seattle.

Wyoming must have been glad to get rid of us because they helped us with money to buy our train tickets to get to Seattle. The Red Cross helped us by getting us half fare tickets. We had banked the money for our tickets from Seattle to Alaska.

Now that the time had come to leave we were both a bit skeptical about our decision to leave. Our families were neither one happy about us going, Sister Grace even offered to put us up with her family. The offer was thoughtful but unacceptable as she had six kids and a drinking husband. What a mess that would have been with eleven kids.

Our goodbyes had all been said shortly after we had made the decision so now, we were actually on our way. No regrets really, but lots of sadness. We really didn't know what was a head of us. Would we ever see our families again? It must have been the same feelings the early pioneers had as they moved westward.

We had to go to Arin Junction about fifty miles from Lusk to get to the train. Since we were to board in the middle of the night, we left Lusk early. The county superintendent of schools offered to take us. It was thirty below zero with a fierce wind blowing. We got there early so had two hours to wait. What a relief to finally board the train with five sleepy cranky kids. All our meals were eaten on the train. Friends and neighbors had made lots of sandwiches (of deer meat that they had gotten just before we left). We had apples and milk along. The days were spent reading to the kids - coloring and kids moving around. We were thankful not many people were on the train so they could move around all through the car. How good it was to get off the train in Seattle at the end of the third day.

We were surely babes in the woods when it came to traveling. We didn't have hotel reservations and not too much money. I sat in the depot while Dad looked for a place close to stay.

Here it is '93 and we are only in Seattle I guess it is time to write some more.

Dad looked close to the train depot for a room for us. He thought he had one but he was badly mistaken. A colored mammy opened the door and he asked about a room. She told him in plain language they didn't have any rooms but they had some mighty nice girls. He finally found rooms in a Japanese hotel but there wasn't any heat in the rooms. We had two rooms, the kids were in one - they had Yale locks on and of course Lad had to try it out. Then no one could open it. The little Jap boy reached down through the transom and opened it. The second day Dad went to the steamship office and we were told we were supposed to be in the Alaska Hotel. So we moved over there. There was heat so I could wash a few diapers and dry them on the radiator. As I remember, we were in Seattle five or six days. We would walk around town a little - when we were tired we would go to a matinee for 10 cent a piece and the kids were all free. At least it got us out of the hotel for a little. It was interesting to me to see so many old (I should say older I guess) men there. When it was intermission, all of them would move close to the front. I soon learned it was because there was a burlesque show at intermission. As soon as it was over the men all left. We surely were dumb or 'greenies' or something.

For our meals, we ate two meals a day and each one of us split our meal with the kids. The rest of the time we drank milk and ate bananas. The longshoremen strike was just over the markets had bananas for five cents, ten cents, and fifteen cents per dozen depending on the size. They had to get rid of them which certainly helped us. I don't think I ever ate so many bananas since that time.

Finally it was time to get on the Alaska steamship. A really different experience. We had two rooms close together. We had all our meals at the second setting with the kids. So during the first dinner hours, we would take the kids on the deck and let them romp and play around. We were all pretty good sailors till we were crossing the Gulf of Alaska. It got pretty rough and the kids began to get sick. We were laying on the bunks watching them push each other away from the pan they throwing up in. The next thing we knew we were down there with them. As I remember, we only had that one day and we didn't miss too many meals or feed too many fish.

After nine days on the ship we docked in Seward. We thought we could stay on the ship till we boarded the train for Palmer but that wasn't the case. We didn't have money for a hotel room but there was a gentleman from Nome who was on the A.R.R.C. board and he loaned us money for a room and sandwiches the next day for the train ride. He put it on our debt and drew money from Alaska Rural Rehabilitation Corporation (ARRC)."

• She graduated from Deweese High School (Class of 1925) in 1925 in Deweese, Clay Co, Nebraska, USA.

• She attended Peru State Teachers College in Peru, Nemaha Co, Nebraska, USA for two years (1925 & 1926) to become a teacher. She taught in country school for two years in Nebraska. In 1929, she got a teaching job in Lusk, Wyoming where she met her future husband.

• She was honored by the Alaska State Legislature with a Legislative Citation on 27 Jan 1995 in Juneau, Juneau Borough, Alaska, USA.

* HONORING *

* FRANCES DINKEL *

The Nineteenth Alaska State Legislature is pleased to honor Frances Dinkel for her long record of community service to residents of the Matanuska-Susitna Valley and to the state of Alaska as well.

Frances Dinkel moved to Alaska in February of 1937. She and her husband, Harold, were replacement colonists on a 40-acre parcel at the furthest west colony location at Mile 2 of Fairview Loop. In 1946 they started a homestead and acquired a total of 240 acres at their present location. They would have bought more but "$1.68 an acre was too much money at the time."

Mrs. Dinkel has devoted nearly fifty years of community service through Northland Pioneer Grange #1 and Wasilla Grange #2 and was instrumental in obtaining area roads, mail delivery and other services for the area. She has also invested almost forty years of service through the 4-H as a club leader and superintendent of the district fair, as well as almost 60 years of service with the Wasilla Homemakers.

Frances Dinkel was also a founding member and was heavily involved in the establishment of the First Presbyterian Church of Wasilla, helping to develop and nurture the congregation.

The Nineteenth Alaska State Legislature notes these and many other efforts and accomplishments of Frances Dinkel and how they have contributed significantly to the development of Wasilla and the quality of life of its citizens. The Legislature joins Frances' six children, her many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren in recognizing the great accomplishments she has achieved. Her contributions to the community are many and will be long remembered.

January 27, 1995

Representatives Kohring, James, Kott, Kubina, Mulder, Nicholia, Ogan, Rokeberg, Sanders, Toohey, Willis;
Senators Halford, Green, Sharp, Duncan, Rieger

• Her Social Security Number was 574-30-7268, issued in Alaska (1971).⁵⁹ Last known residence: 99654 Wasilla, Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Alaska.

• Her obituary was published in the Anchorage Daily News on 28 Dec 2000 in Anchorage, Anchorage Borough, Alaska, USA.²¹⁹

FRANCES DINKEL, 92

"FRANCES COWAN DINKEL, 92, died of heart failure Dec. 21, 2000, at the Palmer Pioneers' Home.

A memorial service will be at 2 p.m. Saturday at First Presbyterian Church of Wasilla. Her ashes will be interred at Wasilla Aurora Cemetery.

Mrs. Dinkel was born April 29, 1908, in Deweese, Neb., to Samuel and Lecretia [sic] Cowan. She attended Peru State Teachers College in Nebraska.

She and her family came to Alaska in 1937 as Matanuska Valley colonists. Before moving to the Palmer Pioneers' Home, she lived in Wasilla and was primarily a homemaker.

Mrs. Dinkel was a charter member of First Presbyterian Church of Wasilla and had served as an elder. She was a past president of Pioneers of Alaska Auxiliary 11 and Queen Regent in 1980, a member of Palmer Grange No. 1, Wasilla Homemakers (60-year member) and Wasilla Aurora Cemetery Association, Wasilla Library Association, and a National Weather Service observer. She had served as a 4-H club leader and 4-H superintendent at the Alaska State Fair.

Mrs. Dinkel received 4-H service awards and was honored by the Alaska Legislature with a proclamation on ''Frances Dinkel Day'' Jan. 27, 1995 for 50 years of community service through Northland Pioneer Grange No. 1 and Wasilla Grange No. 2. She was instrumental in obtaining area road, mail delivery and other services for the area. Other interests were gardening, knitting, embroidery and reading.

Her family said: ''She was a lifelong educator through her service to her children, grandchildren, 4-H youths, and her secretarial and letter-writing skills for numerous organizations. She taught school until she married, at which time they did not allow married women to teach.''

Survivors are her children; 21 grandchildren; 33 great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Harold Dinkel; son, Francis Dinkel; and grandchildren, Lisa Dinkel and Steven Boyce.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to First Presbyterian Church of Wasilla Building Fund, 1375 E. Bogard Road, Wasilla 99654.

Cremation was by Valley Funeral Home & Crematory."
(Anchorage Daily News, 1001 Northway Dr, Anchorage, AK 99508-2098, USA.)

• She was buried at the Wasilla Aurora Cemetery in Wasilla, Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Alaska, USA on 29 Apr 2001.²¹⁹

Frances married Harold Charles Dinkel, son of August Julius Dinkel and Agnes Magdelena Wehenkel, on 24 Feb 1930 in Lusk, Niobrara Co, Wyoming, USA.¹⁶⁵ Harold was born on 11 Nov 1909 in Meadow Grove, Madison Co, Nebraska, USA,⁵⁹ ^,165 ^,220 died on 24 Jun 1989 in Palmer, Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Alaska, USA (Valley Hospital, 515 E Dahlia Ave, Palmer, AK 99645-6489, USA)⁵⁹ ^,220 at age 79, and was buried in 1989 in Wasilla, Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Alaska, USA. The cause of his death was heart failure.

Marriage Notes:

MAT VALLEY NEIGHBORS LIKE FAMILY DINKELS, HANSONS WERE FIRST SETTLERS IN FAIRVIEW LOOP AREA 47 YEARS AGO

by CHRIS GEIGER, Daily News reporter

"With no other people living for miles around, it's no wonder Harold and Frances Dinkel's six children grew up calling their neighbors, the Hansons, 'auntie and uncle.' As the first settlers in what is now the Fairview Loop area -- a string of peaceful, forested knolls overlooking Knik Arm -- the Dinkels and Hansons quickly learned to depend on each other. They shopped for each other, put each other up during storms, and took care of each other's children. In the early years, Harold Dinkel and Henry Hanson would sometimes walk together along the four miles of trail into Wasilla, toting kids on their backs.

The bond between the Dinkels and Hansons has lived on for 47 years, as both families watched subdivisions and shopping malls spread their tentacles around the Matanuska Valley. They are, and always have been, just like family, they say.

'I don't think we realized 'til we left that they weren't our uncle and aunt,' said ..., Harold and Frances Dinkel's youngest daughter.

Henry Hanson and Harold Dinkel followed starkly different paths to their final destination in Alaska. Hanson, a Wisconsin carpenter of Norwegian stock, is a decorated World War I veteran. Dinkel was a Wyoming 'cowpuncher.'

A hint of pride still tinges Hanson's thick Scandinavian accent as he speaks of the war. At 91 years old, the thin, bespectacled man still lives on his homestead, and still remembers the battles 65 years ago.

Henry met his future wife in Montana, where he sat on the school board and she taught school. The couple headed for Alaska in the early 1930s, and travelled around the state teaching and doing carpentry work.

At one time they lived on a floating logging camp in southeastern Alaska. Finding games the school kids could play on the logs was a constant problem there, Esther Hanson said.

'If they hadn't learned to swim by age 10, I guess it was a lost cause,' she said.

The Hansons applied to join the Matanuska colony in the mid-1930s, when the Roosevelt Administration was recruiting farmers for the project. Then in their 30s, the couple was deemed too old to join, Henry said. So they staked a homestead instead, atop a hill near an overgrown logging trail.

Harold Dinkel is the one who helped Hanson pick the spot. The Dinkels had settled just down the hill a few years earlier, after moving out of their colony homestead. It was the colony that brought the Dinkels north from Wyoming, where they had scratched out a meager farm existence during the depression years.

The two men first met the day after Halloween, as Harold Dinkel was cutting grain in his fields, Dinkel said. Somebody had let the air out of Hanson's tire, and he came stomping in to the Dinkels' colony farm to borrow a tire pump.

'He was a pretty mad Norwegian,' Dinkel said.

The two women met soon after, at a homemakers' meeting. A few years later, after both families had settled at Fairview, their friendship began in earnest -- out of necessity.

Stories about the Dinkels pepper Esther Hanson's conversations, and vice versa.

'They're just wonderful neighbors -- AND FRIENDS,' Esther Hanson said. 'They still are.'

'We knew each other's families 'cuz that's all we had to talk to,' Frances Dinkel said. 'We're just like family.'

Living on an overgrown, muddy trail, the families often had to make their shopping trips on foot. If someone from one family was planning a trip, they would always ask the other what they needed in town.

The trail once emerged from the woods near what is now the Cottonwood Creek Mall and then ran all the way to Hatcher Pass. Nowadays, the path begins in the Hanson's backyard, and sections of it have become dirt roads. Although called the Watson Trail on old government maps, it is now called the Hanson Trail by most people.

Harold Dinkel said he's the one who actually cleared most of the trail.
'We never called it the Hanson Trail,' he said. 'We called it The Shortcut.'

Hanson kept building things to earn his living: Wasilla's first church and library, a fish cannery in Homer, and houses. Dinkel worked at the agricultural experiment station, drove the area's first school bus, worked on the railroad and kept weather data, along with farming.

With no telephones, electricity or four-season roads, the two families made do with what companionship they had -- each other. Christmases were often big, two-family occasions, Frances Dinkel said. For the Dinkel children, one of the high points of the day would be scurrying up to the Hansons' and helping 'Auntie' curl her hair, ... said.

'We'd curl her hair, and she'd read tea leaves for us,' ... said.

Frances Dinkel and Esther Hanson got into the habit of warning each other when one was on the way to visit another, Frances said. When Mrs. Hanson started down the trail -- which went 'caddywumpus' to the road, Frances said -- she'd start singing and hollering.

That way, Frances knew it was time to turn on the teapot, she said. And any wildlife along the way knew Hanson was coming.

One day the system came in handy, Frances said. When Mrs. Hanson didn't arrive for a while after 'singin' and hollerin',' Frances started walking down the trail. She found her friend standing on a stump, where one of the Dinkel's rams had chased her.

'Why didn't you hit him?' Frances Dinkel asked.

'I was afraid I'd hurt him,' replied Esther Hanson.

And then there was the night of the wind storm. The Matanuska Glacier winds used to blow a lot harder than they do now, Harold Dinkel said. One winter night, a storm ripped off the Hanson's roof, and the couple appeared shivering on the Dinkel's doorstep.

The Hansons stayed with their neighbors several days, until the other neighbors got together and helped Henry build a new roof.

'Henry's had about five roofs on that place,' Harold Dinkel said.

Sitting inside the Hanson's hilltop house, surrounded by lush lawns and well-used bird houses, the march of civilization still seems far away. Although most of their land has been sold and subdivided, the Matanuska-Susitna Borough holds the last 30 acres in trust, including the house. Someday it will be a park, or a museum.

Although they've taken in plenty of foster children over the years, the Hansons never had any of their own to take over the homestead. They put the land in trust 'so the whole place doesn't get messed up with houses,' Esther Hanson said.

Down the hill a ways, surrounded by sprouting fields and the inevitable sheep, the Dinkels still live in the 'temporary' house they built when they first arrived. Like the Hansons, they never got around to building the 'permanent' house -- they just improved on their old one.

'Don't ever build a 'temporary' house,' Frances Dinkel advised.

Four of their children have built their own houses on other chunks of the homestead, and -- with another child planning to do the same -- they've all begun calling the place 'Dinkel Row,' Harold Dinkel said.

Pictures of children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren line the wall above the picture window, which looks down on the Palmer Hayflats game refuge and Dinkel Lake. Out in the fields, one of the lambs had strayed from its mother, and both bleated at full volume. The Forget-Me-Nots, planted in long rows for sale, reflected the blue spring sky.

'This is the best part of Alaska right here,' said Frances Dinkel."
-- Anchorage Daily News (2 Jun 1986).

• They appeared on the 15th Census of the United States on 1 Apr 1930 in Sheridan Co, Nebraska, USA.¹⁶⁵ The census indicates they lived on a farm, which they rented, and did not have a radio set. The census also indicates they both spoke English and were able to read and write.

• He appeared on the 13th Census of the United States on 15 Apr 1910 in Grove Precinct, Madison Co, Nebraska, USA.²²¹ The census indicates he lived with his parent on a farm, which they rented.

• He appeared on the 14th Census of the United States on 1 Jan 1920 in Sheridan Co, Nebraska, USA.²²² The census indicates he lived with his parents on a farm, which they owned (mortgaged). The census also indicates he attended school within the last four months, between 1 Sep 1919 and 1 Jan 1920. He spoke English and was able to read and write.

• He worked as a farmer (general farm) in Sheridan Co, Nebraska, USA, according to the 1930 Census.¹⁶⁵

• His Social Security Number was 574-05-7491, issued in Alaska (before 1951).⁵⁹

• His obituary was published in the Anchorage Daily News on 27 Jun 1989 in Anchorage, Anchorage Borough, Alaska, USA.²²⁰

HAROLD C. DINKEL

"Pioneer Alaskan Harold C. Dinkel, 79, died June 24 at Valley Hospital in Palmer.

Visitation will be from 4 to 6 p.m. today at Kehl's Palmer Chapel. A memorial service will be at 7 p.m. today at First Presbyterian Church in Wasilla with the Rev. Joseph Bettridge officiating.

Mr. Dinkel was born Nov. 11, 1909, in Meadow Grove, Neb. At age 14, he worked as a cowboy on one of the last U.S. cattle drives.

He and his wife lived in Nebraska and Wyoming during their early marriage. They moved to Alaska in February 1937 as replacement colonists. In 1946, they began homesteading in Wasilla on Fairview Loop Road.

Mr. Dinkel was a member of the Alaska Territorial Guard and a charter member of First Presbyterian Church in Wasilla. He was active in Northland Pioneer Grange, Masonic Lodge and the Pioneers of Alaska.

He retired in 1972 from the agricultural experiment station in Palmer. He drove a school bus for 15 years, worked for the Alaska Railroad and served as a weather observer for 40 years.

Since retirement, he enjoyed working in his yard and garden.

He is survived by his wife, Frances, of Wasilla; his daughters, his sons, ... and Francis, of Beaverton, Ore.; his sister, Arletta Meyers, of Nebraska; his foster son, ... of Sacramento, Calif.; 20 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren.

Memorial contributions can be sent to the AlAska Shrine Crippled Children's Travel Fund, 1730 E. Northern Lights Blvd., Anchorage, 99508 or Snider Pioneer Park, P.O. Box 870494, Wasilla, 99687.

Service arrangements were by Kehl's Palmer Mortuary."
(Anchorage Daily News, 1001 Northway Dr, Anchorage, AK 99508-2098, USA.)

• He was buried at the Wasilla Aurora Cemetery in Wasilla, Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Alaska, USA in 1989.

M i. Francis Harold Dinkel ²²⁰ was born on 5 Apr 1933 in Deweese, Clay Co, Nebraska, USA, died on 1 Jul 1996 in Portland, Multnomah Co, Oregon, USA at age 63, and was buried on 8 Jul 1996 in Portland, Multnomah Co, Oregon, USA. The cause of his death was emphysema.²²³ Another name for Francis was Lad Dinkel.

• He graduated from Wasilla High School in 1951 in Wasilla, Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Alaska, USA.²²³

• He worked for the US Postal Service for 32 years, until his retirement in 1988.²²³ ^,224

• His obituary was published in the Oregonian on 8 Jul 1996 in Portland, Multnomah Co, Oregon, USA.²²⁴

FRANCIS 'FRANK' DINKEL

"A celebration of life will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, July 13, 1996, in the Harris/Dinkel home in Beaverton for Francis ''Frank'' Dinkel, an employee of the U.S. Postal Service employee in Beaverton for 32 years. He who died July 1 at age 63.

Mr. Dinkel was born April 5, 1933, in Deweese, Neb. He retired in 1988. He served in the U.S. Army. He married in 1956.

Surviving are his wife of 40 years; daughters, ... of Beaverton and ... of Portland; sons, ... and ..., both of Beaverton; sisters, ... of Anchorage, Alaska, and ... and ..., both of Wasilla, Alaska; brothers, ... and ..., both of Wasilla; Alaska; and four grandchildren.

The family suggests remembrances donations to Providence Child Care Center in memory of Robbie Andrews. Arrangements are by Pegg, Paxson & Springer Chapel."
(The Oregonian, 1320 SW Broadway, Portland, OR 97201-3411, USA.)

• His obituary was published in the Anchorage Daily News on 30 Jul 1996 in Anchorage, Anchorage Borough, Alaska, USA.²²³

FRANCIS H. DINKEL

"Former Alaskan Francis Harold 'Ladd' Dinkel, 63, died July 1, 1996, in a Portland, Ore., hospital of emphysema.

A military graveside service was held in Portland, and a celebration of his life was held July 13 at his Beaverton home.

Mr. Dinkel was born April 5, 1933, in Deweese, Neb., to Frances and Harold Dinkel.

He came to Alaska with his parents and siblings in February 1937. The family was part of the Matanuska Colonist Project, and they settled south of Wasilla. Mr. Dinkel attended school in Wasilla and graduated from Wasilla High School in 1951.

He served two years at the Army Arctic Center in Big Delta.

After his discharge, he left Alaska to attend Oregon College of Education at Monmouth, Ore. While there, he met ..., and they were married in June 1956. They settled in Beaverton and he went to work for the U.S. Postal Service. He worked for 32 years, retiring in 1988.

He and his wife took care of many foster children, readily accepting those with special needs. He enjoyed working with myrtlewood. He was a member of Beaverton Masonic Lodge No. 100.

Mr. Dinkel is survived by his wife; daughters; sons; mother, Frances of Wasilla; sisters; brothers; four grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

His family suggests memorial donations in memory of Robbie Andrews, a beloved foster child, to the Providence Child Care Center, 830 N.E. 47th Ave., Portland, Ore. 97213."
(Anchorage Daily News, 1001 Northway Dr, Anchorage, AK 99508-2098, USA.)

• He was buried at the Willamette National Cemetery in Portland, Multnomah Co, Oregon, USA on 8 Jul 1996. Buried in: Section 2, Site 762.
(Willamette National Cemetery, 11800 SE Mount Scott Blvd, Portland, OR 97266-6937, USA.)

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Bures and Farmer Family Meeting Place

Descendants of Peter and Maria Bures

Fourth Generation