SMITH, HOWE

Posted by Cathy Gowdy on Saturday, March 02, 2013 at 06:51:17 :

The Marin Journal
Thursday, December 18, 1902
page 8

Sudden Death of a Pioneer

Petaluma Argus
JASPER W. SMITH, better known as "Bunk" Smith, one of the best known and oldest pioneer residents of this vicinity, was found dead in bed at his home on Fair Street, this city, by members of his family.

Mr. Smith had been ailing for some time and was under the care of a physician. He was up and around as usual and on Saturday and Sunday walked downtown. He retired at his usual hour on Sunday night and death must have come painlessly in the dark hours of the night. On Monday morning when members of the family went to call him, it was found that he had passed away.

Mr. Smith leaves a widow, 5 sons, and 2 daughters, one of the latter being the wife of Charles Howe, formerly of Petaluma and now of Santa Rosa. He was a native of Missouri aged about 70 years, and for fully 40 years resided in this vicinity.

For many years he conducted a ranch at Salmon Creek, Marin County, moving into town during the present year and building the little home on Fair Street where he died. The property is now in litigation. Owing to the nature of his death, an inquest will probably be held this evening. No arrangements have been made for the funeral. Mr. Smith left many warm friends to regret his death.