Aaron was born in Clarksville, Green, PA, on Sep 4, 1818 and died at his home in Benton Twp., Lucas, IA, Oct. 15, 1910, age of 92 years, 1 month and 11 days.
While a young man he emigrated to Pekin, Tazewell, IL, where he met Margaret Ann Redlingshafer, whom he married March 22, 1856. In the fall of 1858, he and his wife migrated to Iowa by team, consisting of a horse and an ox. They settled in Benton Twp.,Lucas, IA, where with their own hands they carved out of the wilderness the most blessed spot on earth and precious, a home.
To this union was born 14 children, eight sons and six daughters. Two sons died in infancy. Of the 12 children left to mourn the loss of their father all were present at the funeral services except one daughter, Lizzie Van Gilder, of Jewell Co., KS, who was detained by her train, but arrived in time to take a last look at the remains of her father before the casket was closed at the church.
Aaron leaves to mourn his death ten grandchildren, four great grandchildren, and two brothers; George, age 90 and Uriah, 85, who live near the old birth place in Green Co., PA. His beloved and devoted wife answered the death summons six years ago on Nov. 19, 1904. His only sister died at the age of 25. His grandfather died at the age of 110 years old. He came of sturdy stock.
Aaron's character and constitution were of the rugged type developed in the old school of pioneers. Accustomed to strenuous labor and hard knocks he learned to endure hardships of a good soldier. During his late sickness he was often heard to groan but without complaint.
He was a kind father and a good friend. He accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Savior on Oct 22, 1905, at the Mt. Carmel U. Evangelical Church and was his Lord's disciple until death.
Funeral services wete held at the Salem M.E. Church on Oct. 16, 1910, conducted by Rev. Killoren, associated by the pastor of the M.E. Church, Rev. Wood. Interment in the Salem Cemetery.