James McOmber
Nov. 9, 1845-Nov. 12, 1920
Niles Daily Star-Sun, Friday, November 12, 1920, page 1, col. 2, microfilm Niles District Library
DEATH REMOVES JAS. M'OMBER
Death removed a well known Civil war veteran, and highly respected pioneer resident of Niles this morning when James McOmber died suddenly at his home, 407 Cedar street. Mr. McOmber had suffered with a severe cold for several days but was able to be about his work as usual. During last night he suffered a chill which developed into an acute attack of pneumonia and at 9 o'clock his death occurred.
Mr. McOmber was born in New York state. On last Tuesday he observed his seventy-fifth birthday anniversary. When he was a boy of 11 he came to Niles with his parents, and had since resided here. When he had reached the age of 14 years both his parents were dead, leaving the boy to shift for himself. He engaged in a number of activities, until the war broke out whereupon he enlisted and served for two years.
Mr. McOmber was married to Alice Brelsford in Niles more than 40 years ago, Rev. Alfred Eddy, D.D., performing the wedding ceremony. The widow and two children, James Lanford McOmber of Niles, and Mrs. Robinson, wife of Rev. Leroy Robinson, Methodist pastor at Battle Creek survive as do also several grandchildren.
Mr. McOmber belonged to no fraternal order.
For nearly 36 years Mr. McOmber was employed as care-taker of the Chapin property in Niles, giving his particular care to the garden and lawns, and they ever presented a beautiful appearance as a result of his faithfulness to his work. One of Mr. McOmber's hobbies, was keeping a record of weather conditions and his diary accurately reported the temperature at some period during each day for many years.
The arrangements for the funeral services have not been made pending the arrival of Mrs. Robinson. It is requested that when the services are held that as many of the old soldiers in the city who can do so, attend the services for their late comrade.