Fifty years ago - Nov. 19, 1967 - our father, Alfred W. Gill, passed away after suffering for months from cancer at the age of 74.
Alfred’s life might be considered challenging by some, but he always seemed to maintain: a positive outlook on life, a close relationship with his family and friends, and a strong faith in God.
He was born on the Gill farm near Montrose which his father, Alfred W. Gill, homesteaded in 1890. His father died in 1900 in a train accident while working on the railroad near Mitchell, S.D. He left his wife, Ellen Barrett Gill and 7 children to carry on with the homestead. Alfred and his older brother, Wheeler Gill, continued the farming (including breaking some of the prairie ground for the first time). They spend time in Sioux Falls with their grandfather, also Alfred Gill. Remembering this time, Dad shared stories of working with Wheeler, in a bowling alley setting pins by hand, and also working as caddies on a golf course. They each earned ten cents for an evening of setting pins. Alfred farmed by himself when Wheeler left for employment building roads. When Alfred was drafted to serve in France during WW1, Wheeler returned to farm the homestead again. Alfred saw plenty of action during WW1, including the now famous final Battle of the Argonne, where his Infantry battalion was surrounded behind enemy lines until they were rescued, ending the war.
Alfred returned to farm again, and gave credit to his famous hogs for enabling him to save the homestead during the Great Depression in the '30s. He was a lifelong member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church and also a very proud member of Montrose Rusty Waul Post 154, American Legion. He was proud to be a farmer, an American, a husband and father. He enjoyed picking wildflowers and singing Americana songs! He taught by example the value of hard work and the joy of sharing with family and neighbors; especially to those in need.
He married Kathryn Flynn October 27, 1941 at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Humboldt, S.D. From this union two children were born. John Gill has continued to live and farm the homestead. He also served in Korea in the Army as his father before him (WWI) and his great-grandfather (Civil War). Kathleen Gill, Fox, Seal Beach, Calif. Three grandchildren: John Fox, Seal Beach, Daniel Fox, Junction City, Kan., Heather Fox Urban, Leavenworth, Kan.,. and 9 great-grandchildren.