RAY C. SIDERS

Ray C. Siders

Died near his home, 3½ miles northeast of Vermont, Jan. 8, 1903, aged 16 years and two months. Ray was the oldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Siders, who lived near Astoria until the last year, when they moved near Vermont.

Ray and his father were in the timber working until about half past three, when the boy took the gun and went hunting. He left his home all alone, but on his way came in company with a young man by the name of Edward Childers. They had not gone far when they found a rabbit in a log and in trying to punch it out with a stick the gun, which Ray had, went off hitting him in the face and head, killing him almost instantly.

He leaves a father, mother, two brothers and one sister besides numerous other relatives and friends to mourn his loss.

The funeral services were held at Salem, burial in cemetery near by. The family has the sympathy of the entire community in this sad bereavement.

A precious one from us is gone,
A voice we loved is still,
A place is vacant in our home
Which never can be filled.

The family thanks their many friends for the kindness shown them during this sad trial.

* * *

This account was sent to us by the young man's teacher, and we give it in addition to the above:

On Thursday, Jan. 8th, all nature wore its loveliest smile. The sun rose bright and beautiful, but ere its last rays sank to rest in the western horizon the sad news passed over the community that Ray Siders had met a tragic death by an accidental discharge from a gun which he carried while out hunting.

He was a gentle, patient, noble, good boy. His quiet manners and lovable disposition won the esteem of all who knew him.

"None knew him but to love him.
None named him but to praise."

In the home there is a vacant chair, in the school a vacant seat. Friends, teacher and schoolmates shall miss the greeting smile, the merry laugh.

Life is short at best. To live as long as we may, life is short. And while he shall be missed at every turn — 'twill not be long until all who tread the earth must follow.

"So live that when thy summons come
To join the innumerable caravan
That moves to the pale realms of shade
Where each shall take his chamber
In the silent halls of death.
Let us go sustained and soothed
By an unfaltering trust.
Approach thy grave like one
Who wraps the drapery
Of his couch about him
And lies down to pleasant dreams."

Ray Siders was born in Astoria township, Nov. 10, 1887 and died in Vermont township Jan. 8, 1903. He leaves to mourn his loss, a father, mother, two brothers and one sister. The funeral services were conducted in Salem church and the remains were laid to rest in the adjoining cemetery.

— Iva E. Forsee

 

Published in the Astoria Search Light on 1/15/1903

Current Obituaries in the Astoria South Fulton Argus