Another of our old original settlers was called to the great beyond and was buried in the Farnam cemetery, Monday, February 12. 1923.

Mr. Garven was born at Toledo, Canada, December 15, 1852 and died at the residence of his daughter, Mrs. B.J. Ainlay in Belgrade, Nebr., Saturday, February 10, 1923, aged 70 years, 2 months and 25 days.

In his younger days he moved to Cameron, Penn., and engaged in the blacksmith business. At this point he was married to Miss Mary Morse. To this union 8 children were born, six of whom survive him. His wife having died a few years ago. Mrs. Mame Ainlay of Belgrade, Nebr., Mrs. Mable Hobbs and Mrs. Ellen Williams of Farnam, Mrs. Florence Bennett of Casper, Wyoming and Earl Garven of Omaha, all children, attended the funeral. Thos. Garven of Spivey, Kansas, a son, was unable to attend.

Mr. Garven came to this country in 1884 and conducted the hotel and blacksmith shop in old Keystone, before Farnam was started. When Farnam was established he operated a blacksmith shop and afterwards built and operated a hardware store and handled hardware, implements and harness for years. After selling out his hardware business he engaged in farming and stock raising on a large farm.

“Anthony” as he was familiarly called by the old timers, was loved by all. No one ever went to him for a favor with getting it. This especially true and especially valuable in the pioneer days when a little credit or a little assistance was a valuable thing. There was times in those days when he was worried to get through himself, but he was still ready to extend a helping hand.

Of late years, he has made his home with his daughter, Mrs. Clyde Williams on the Garven farm south of town, where he was still interested in the stock business.

He was a member of the Catholic church and was buried from their church in Farnam.

He was a loving father, a kind husband and a good neighbor and friend. Such a character is always a benefit to a community and his absence, will be much regretted. He has lived his time. He has accomplished the work allotted him and now our wish is that he many enjoy the rest provided for all in the next world.

Our sympathy and the sympathy of the entire community is extended to the bereaved family.

Source: Collection of local family member