Widger, William Henry 1850-1926 Laurens, NY Obituary

Obituary

• Sept 1926 , Laurens, Otsego Co., NY

OBITUARY OF HENRY WIDGER. 
Early in Life Settled in Laurens and Became Carriage Maker--Later Engaged in Undertaking Business--Funeral on Sunday.
Laurens, Sept. 17 (1926)--Willam Henry Widger, whose death occurred on Thursday evening at his home here was born in Golberton, Cornwall, Eng. on February 26, 1850.  When but three years of age he came with his parents William S. and Ann (Dawe) Widger, and eight sisters in a sailing ship to the United States.  Six weeks were required for the voyage. 
The family settled in Pleasant Mount, Pa. but when a young man Mr. Widger came to Laurens and entered the employ of Kidder and Fisher, carriage makers.  Within a few years he bought out the business and later on engaged in the undertaking business, following both pursuits until failing health compelled him to retire.  Mr. Widger was twice married.  His first wife was Miss Rosepha A. Carr, to whom he was married in 1874 in this village.  She died 10 years later.  In 1889 he married Miss Bertha M. Tobey, Morris, who survives him.
His decline had been gradual, but for the past few weeks he has been confined to his bed.  To the last his mind had been clear and he was most gracious in praise of his wife and sister, who have so tenderly watched over and cared for him. 
In politics Mr. Widger was a staunch Republican, twice representing his town as supervisor.  In early life he became a member of Laurens lodge, F. & A.M. and uheld the principles of the order.  He carried no large stock of pretenses, but was dignified and unassuming, respected by all who knew him: he was a man throroughly devoted to his home and family.  He was a member of the Episcopal Church of England.
Besides his wife, his near surviving relatives are two sisters, the Misses Minnie and Lizzie Widger, Scranton, Pa.; three children, Ralph A. Widger, Scranton; Mrs. Edward Fortman and Miss Marjorie Widger, Binghamton; and four grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held Sunday at his late home at 1 p.m. The Rev. N. B. Graves of Mt. Upton will officiate.  The Masonic funeral ritual will be used at the grave.