The following is a transcription of an article that appeared on page 8 of the 10 Dec 1914 issue of Simcoe Reformer newspaper. [Some paragraph breaks inserted by the transcriber. John's housekeeper and son were named Caswell in the 1901 Census.]

The Late John McPherson

Jarvis Record.--John McPherson, who died yesterday, (Dec. 1st, 1914) at his home on the farm near Rockford, was one of a large family born in that section of the Township of Townsend, and had lived there all his life of about sixty-three years.

Losing his father when but a lad, John had to take that parent's place and assist his mother in caring for the other children, who were younger than he. Thus, at a tender age, about 12 or 13, he assumed responsibilities which he thoroughly and carefully carried out ever since and even down to the last hour of his life. Mr. McPherson never married, but lived with his mother until her death, twenty years ago.

He then bought the old farm at Bowlby's mill, engaged Mrs. Casewell [sic] with her son, Ira, aged seven years, as his housekeeper and set out to improve the old place, get it paid for and then have a few years in which to lighten his labors, after the many seasons of toil that had passed, look joyfully forward to a future of contentment and live in comfortable ease unto his journey's end.

Alas! we little know what a few weeks, months or a year or two will bring forth and poor John was stricken with a malady which all too early brought his useful life to a close.

John McPherson was very fond of children and took a great liking to Ira Casewell [sic], who has been with him ever since childhood and was the last to soothe the furrowed brow and clasp the dying hand of his dear old friend.

As a neighbor, a steadfast friend and an honest man, John McPherson was all that could be desired and the world is some better for his having lived on it.

Horses were always one of John's delights and he almost always had one to exhibit at the fairs throughout these parts.

As Ira Casewell [sic] was so faithful and satisfied his employer so well, Mr. McPherson, we believe, left all he possessed to the care of this young man, thus indicating that he never forgot those who were good to him, a quality that it would be well for us the living to cultivate.

Farewell, old friend, thou hast fought the good fight, may peace, perfect peace be thine in the home beyond.--A boy of the Old Brigade.

 
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