Published in The Rochester Sentinel
Friday, December 15, 1893

The community was shocked Friday morning when the word went out that John GOTTSCHALK was dead. He had been ailing for two weeks, but he was not considered dangerous. His death was the result of neuralgia of the heart, and Rev. J. T. KEESEY, his former pastor and friend, writes
the following memorial on his life and death:
John Gottschalk was born in Montgomery county, Ohio, August 28, 1844, and died at his home in Rochester, aged 49 years and 3 months. He was married to Miss Elizabeth STOCKDILL, of Adams county, Indiana, April 16, 1866. He moved to Fulton county in the fall of 1874, and on the 9th day of February, ‘79, his wife preceded him to the spirit world, leaving him with six small children to mourn the loss of a devoted mother. Thus Brother Gottschalk battled with the ills of life and succeeded in keeping his children together. In 1882 he married Mrs. Katie REYNOLDS, who survives him. In January 1880 he was happily converted and united with the United Brethren church in a revival held in Antioch school house by the writer. At his death he was a member of Grace M.E. church, of Rochester. He leaves three daughters, four sons, six grandchildren, six brothers, four sisters, a devoted wife and a host of friends to mourn his sudden departure. He was an honored member of the Knights of Honor and a comrade of McClung Post of the Grand Army of the Republic. He fought in the war of the rebellion and was a brave soldier. Brother Gottschalk was known as an industrious citizen, a kind neighbor and a faithful christian. Our loss is his gain. The battle is fought and victory won. He is resting from his labor and his works do follow him.
The funeral was held at Grace church Sunday afternoon, Rev. KEESEY officiating, after which the G.A.R. escorted the remains to their final resting place in Odd Fellows cemetery.

SOURCE:
Fulton County Indiana Obits/Biogs - 1891-1895
by Wendell C. Tombaugh