John Wesley SURSA, who was born December 23, 1856, near Belle RIve, and spent his entire life in that neighborhood, died this morning at 4:20 o'clock at his home after a period of more that a year of ill health.

Mr. SURSA was a farmer known for his integrity. He took a prominent part in fraternal and civic affairs and politics and had a wide circle of friends.

He was married in 1880 to Myra Arminta FARMER and she, with their six children, survives him.

The children are : Mrs. Hettie McPHERSON, Mt. Vernon; Mrs. Essa JARED, Urbana; Mrs. Mary HOPKINS, Belle Rive; Mrs. Nellie SHUMATE, Urbana; Charles E. SURSA, Belle Rive; and Miss Inez SURSA, Mt. Vernon. One sister, Mrs. Mary ALLEN, is living and there are 18 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.

In 1909 Mr. SURSA was converted and united with the Union Grove United Brethren Church. He was a member of Masonic Lodge No. 696, of Belle Rive, and was for many years Chaplain. He was also a member of the Modern Woodman.

He was active in political work and for a number of years served as Republican committeeman in Pendleton Twp.

Funeral services will be held Friday afternoon, September 29 at 1:30 at the First Methodist Church in Belle Rive. Interment will be in the I.O.O.F. cemetery at Opdyke.

Source: Mt. Vernon, IL Register News
Date: Wednesday, September 27, 1933
Submitted by: Mary Zinzilieta