Parkersburg, Iowa Eclipse and New Hartford Journal
Thursday, September 20, 1906

Accidentally Killed

        A distressingly fatal accident occurred last Saturday evening about
one mile northwest of town by which Chris Schmelbech, a deaf and dumb
man, lost his life.  Schmelbech has made his home for many years with the
Nicklaus families and for five years past he has lived with Tole
Cramer.  Saturday evening he started to walk to town taking the Northwestern
track.  It had been his custom to do this, although his friends had
repeatedly urged him not to do it.  When crossing the wagon road at the
Tjepkes farm a Northwestern work train south bound and running at a high
rate of speed came up behind him.  The engineer whistled repeatedly and
made an effort to stop his train, but the doomed man took no notice and
did not seem to realize his danger till just an instant before the
engine struck him.  He seemed to hesitate and started to turn round when
the engine hit him, throwing his body to the fence.  When picked up he
was dead, having been killed instantly.  Both legs were broken, one of
his shoulders thrown out of joint and the back of his head crushed.  The
body was picked up and prepared for burial.  No coroner's inquest was
held, the cause of death being known and no blame can attach to the
railroad company.
        The deceased was born in Germany and came to this country at three
years of age.  He was born deaf and dumb.  He was 50 years old and
possessed of considerable propety.  The funeral services were held Monday
morning at the Catholic church, Rev. Father Baxter conducting the services.
The interment took place in the Catholic cemetery.  Mrs. John Steffen,
a sister, and her husband, and a brother, all from Dubuque county,
attended the funeral.
        The deceased was a man who attended strictly to his own business.  He
was a good worker and in spite of his affliction seemed to enjoy life.
        Tole Cramer and wife wish to extend thanks to those who so kindly
assisted them after the death and at the burial of Mr. Schmelbech.