William F. Merifield and William P. Gilbert, Pioneers

Two obituaries from Pioneers of Northwest Ohio, Carma Rowe estate, Hicksville, Ohio:

"GILBERT

William P. Gilbert, son of George and Susan Gilbert, was born in Austin, Trumbull county, Ohio, November 1, 1831.  His father served in the war of the Revolution, being with General Washington when he crossed the Delaware at McConkey's
ferry, and surprised and defeated the Hessians at Trenton, N. J.  It seems improbably upon first hearing the statement that one just passing away at this distance from Revolutionary days should be the son of one who fought in these battles, but the father was 80 years old when William was born.

He came to Hicksville in 1856 and was married the same year to Susan Fish.
Five children were born to this union.  One daughter died in childhood.  The surviving children are Mrs. Lillie Ransom of Hicksville, F. P. Gilbert of Findlay, O. H. Gilbert of Fostoria, and C. L. Gilbert of Hicksville, all of whom were present at the funeral service which was conducted from the U. B. church Tuesday afternoon by Rev. J. F. Miller.

Mr. Gilbert died at the home of his son Clarence on Spencerville street, Sunday morning, November 27, 1910, aged 79 years and 26 days.  Beside the above mentioned, relatives he leaves ten grandchildren, three great grandchildren with other relatives."

"MERIFIELD

 

Wm. F. Merifield was born in New London, Huron county, O., January 20, 1833.  He was united in marriage with Miss Juda Smith October 3, 1855, in Lorain county, O.  To them were born 8 children, 5 daughters and 3 sons.  One son, Bertie Eton, preceded him to the better world when 11 years of age.

About 1858, they moved to this county, and soon after with his companion, joined the United Brethren in Christ at Fairview under the labors of Rev. Cyrus Lawrence.  Quiet and unassuming in manner, but possessed of strong faith in Christ, he followed the Master and trusted to the end.

Of late years he has not been permitted to attend the services of the sanctuary because of impaired health, and that of his companion, but was always interested in the work of the church and remained a faithful member until his death.

He was a devoted husband, a kind and indulgent father, by precept and example seeking their highest good.  He departed this life December 19, 1908, aged 75 years, 10 months and 29 days.  He leaves his companion, 2 sisters, 3 brothers, the youngest being present at the funeral. 7 children, 19 grandchildren, one great-grandchild, with other relatives and many friends who deplore their loss.  But their loss is his gain.  On daughter, Hattie, was unable to be present on account of sickness.

Funeral services occurred from the home Tuesday afternoon conducted by Dr. J. W. Lilly, assisted by Rev. J. F. Miller.  Interment at Six Corners cemetery."