Captain Creagan’s death comes as a severe shock to hundreds of friends as he was active on the department until 10 years ago. He had suffered considerably from a serious ailment, but refused to remain off duty. An operation was advised by attending physicians and Captain Creagan was admitted in the hospital a week ago.
Following a series of treatments, an operation was performed Wednesday morning. The operation was successful, but pneumonia developed and the condition of the veteran fireman became gradually weaker until his death last night.
Born in Rockford

Mr. Creagan was born in Rockford, Feb. 23, 1865, a son of Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Creagan. The family lived in South Water street where the Barnes Drill company now stands. His mother died when he was 20 months old and he was raised to manhood by Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Sullivan, residing on a farm six miles south of Rockford.

He attended country school before coming to Rockford in his boyhood days. While living here he went to Kent school. After farming several years, Mr. Creagan operated a restaurant in Rockford. He later worked as a street car motorman.
November 5, 1890, he was united in marriage with Miss Catherine Moran, the daughter of Thomas Moran and Elizabeth Dailey. The service was held at St. Thomas Catholic church in Beloit. The couple returned to Rockford to make their home.
Appointed In 1900

Mr. Creagan was appointed to the fire department Dec. 10, 1900. he was assigned in engine company 3 in South Rockford. He was transferred to engine company 1, Feb. 1, 1903, and May 2, 1904, he was promoted to captain of engine company 3. Jan. 1, 1906, he was made captain of engine company 1 and served in that capacity until may 22, 1927, when he was assigned as captain of engine company 6 in the west end.

Captain Creagan watched the fire department develop from a horse drawn and steam engine outfit of only a few companies to one of the best equipped and efficient firefighting departments in Illinois. He engaged in fighting many of Rockford’s most serious blazes during his 28 years of service, and his loss as a fireman will come as a severe blow to the department.
Had Many Friends

His genial nature won him hundreds of friends, not only on the fire department but in all walks of life. He was highly respected by every member of the department and proved himself worthy of their regard by his earnestness to his duties.
Besides a widow, Mr. Creagan is survived by nine children. they are Paul T. Creagan, 208 Miriain avenue; Clyde L., Sterline, Ill.; Loretta, residing at home; Mrs. L.V. Osborne, Rockton; Mrs. Harold T. Kennedy, 806 Alliance avenue; William J., residing at home; David j., Buffalo, N.Y.; Francis V. and Rita, residing at home. He also leaves ten grandchildren and two sisters. They are Mrs. William Mattis and Miss Elizabeth Creagan, both of Chicago.

Mr. Creagan was a member of St. Patricks Catholic church and the Holy Name society of that parish. he also was a member of the Modern Woodsmen of America, and the Firemen’s relief association.
Funeral services probably will be held Monday morning at the home and St. Patrick’s church with burial in the Catholic cemetery.

Will Drape Station

Fire station 6 where Captain Creagan spent his last days in the service of the department, will be draped in morning today. Chief Thomas D. Blake last night highly praised the work of Captain Creagan. “He was a fine man, a fine firefighter and a fine friend.” Chief Blake said. “The vacancy made by his death will be difficult to fill.”

Captain Creagan’s body will be carried to the grave on one of the fire engines while an honorary escort of firemen will walk at the side of the funeral procession.