The genial countenance
and portly figure of "Uncle Dan" McKenny [sic] will be
seen no more on our streets, for the many citizens to whom he has been a
familiar friend for more than fifty years were this morning pained to
learn that he had passed to the "other shore."
Last evening (Tuesday, December
2) after a brief illness of one week, he died of complication of
diseases at about nine o'clock. When taken ill with a cold, he did not
consider his condition dangerous, and refused medicial aid until the day
before his death, when it was too late.
Daniel W., was a son of Jacob
and Mary (McCall) McKenney [sic], and born in Charlotteville,
Norfolk County, Canada, May 17, 1830, and was consequently 72 years old
last May.
When 10 yeares of age he came
with his parents to Illinios and located on a farm in the vicinity of
Dixon where his life was spent, with the exception of a year in
California in 1852-53 -- until he removed to Dixon in 1862.
Here he engaged in the livery
business which he conducted almost continuously ever since.
In 1856 Mr. McKenney [sic]
was married to Miss G. A. LaPorte, a resident of Wyoming township, this
county, who died in February 1891.
In September of the following
year he was married to Miss Albertina Pipher, who survives him with two
sons, Daniel W. Jr., aged 9, and Frank A., aged 7 years.
He also leaves a brother Van R.,
and a sister, Mrs. Z. P. Whitney, both living in Rock Falls.
Mr. McKenney [sic] was a
very heavy man, and in a fall several years ago sustained the injury of
a broken hip, which laid him up for a long time. Last winter he also
fell on the icy walk in front of Lang's feed store and was severely
injured, his head striking the stone step.
"Uncle Dan" was a man
of domestic habits, taking his greatest delight in his own home circle,
though being of a kind and friendly disposition, his pleasant
association extended to a very large circle of friends.
Generous and helpful to all
those in need, he was often called on for material assistance, and most
readily responded.
One of the oldest settlers in
this vicinity, he has seen most of his early friends and associates pass
away, but he has kept in touch with the newer generations, and many will
miss the kindly clasp of his hand, his pleasant smile, and the warm
greeting from his great heart.
A good man, a kind friend, has
gone home. Peace to his ashes.
