Samuel Joss

Samuel Joss Dies At Ranch Sat.

Samuel Joss, 84, died at his ranch home near Manville Saturday from complications of old age. Funeral services were held from the Peet Chapel Tuesday at 2:00 p.m. Burial was in the Lusk Cemetery.

The life story of Sam Joss is typical of the West. He came early and stayed to grow and prosper with the West. He came to Wyoming in 1888 or 1889 at the age of 16 or 17 and went to work as a hired hand for Eugene and George Wilson on the historic Running Water Ranch near Lusk. May 5, 1901 he and Miss Clara Hitshew, daughter of George and Mattie Hitshew were married at Manville. They made their home on Harney Creek North of Lost Spring until they purchased the Horseshoe Ranch north of Manville in about 1906. They were the parents of three children.

The Historical Encyclopedia of Wyoming says, "Mr. Joss may well take his place among the true-hearted pioneers who developed Wyoming into the fine and productive state it is today. His success has been earned entirely by his own efforts, and, not contented to rest on past achievements; he is continuing his good work in the stock-raising industry of Niobrara County."

Had Mr. Joss lived until December 21 he would have been 85 years old.

At the services Tuesday a male quartet composed of Rex Yocum, Dr. Richard Collins, Donley Unruh and E. E. Davenport sang "Last Roundup" and "Old Rugged Cross." Dr. Collins, soloist, sang "The Lords Prayer." Mrs. A. F. DeCastro was organist.

Active pall bearers were Philip Joss, Artie Joss, Sammy Kirk, Don Emery, Jim McAllister, Arthur Keller, Ray Reed and George Gibson. Honorary pall bearers were George Mill, Fred McNeil, Fred Kettler, L. C. Stoddard, O. M. Rasmusen, Harry Manning, John Agnew, Ed Arnold, John Howard, C. E. Marvin, O. A. Moss and E. M. Criss.

Mr. Joss was preceded in death by his wife; one son, George; one daughter, Blanche.

He is survived by one son, Arthur of Niobrara County; one sister Mrs. Bertha Cooley of San Diego, Calif.; six grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

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