Obituary

William H. Gleason

William H. Gleason was born April 5, 1848 in St. John’s, New Brunswick and came to Galena by stage coach in his early childhood, together with his parents, and six brothers, all of whom but one have preceded him in death.

When a young man he was employed on boats on the Mississippi river in the days when freight was landed by boat on the Galena levee. He was also employed at the Ryan Packing House.

In 1879 Mr. Gleason worked on the “Narrow Gauge” of the then known Chicago, Milwaukee and Northwestern railway, now the Chicago & North Western, as a conductor.

About 1885 he went to work for the Burlington railroad and for over 30 years was conductor on the “stub” between Galena and the Junction.

On this run he was familiarly known as “Old Bill” by hundreds of patrons of this road. His disposition was one of good nature and he was the friend of all who knew him.

In 1927 his wife preceded him in death after which he went to Milwaukee to live with his daughter, Mrs. Marie Peterson. Within that same year his son-in-law died and he together with Mrs. Peterson and her family returned to Galena to live.

Preparatory to making a trip to Chicago Monday morning, Mr. Gleason retired early Sunday night. Noting that he had not arisen early according to his custom, his daughter called him, and receiving no answer, found him dead. He had passed away in his sleep from heart trouble.

Surviving are his sons R. H. Gleason and P. J. Gleason of Chicago, a daughter, Mrs. Marie Peterson, of Galena and a brother, Walter M. Gleason of Fon du Lac, Wis.

The Julien Dubuque lodge No. 347 of the Order of Railway Conductors of which he was a member was represented at the home on Third street by several members.

Burial services were conducted with Requiem High Mass at St. Michael’s Catholic church at nine o’clock Thursday morning. Burial was made in St. Michael’s cemetery.

Submitted by Tim Doser.