Albert Henry Persels, son of John and Clarissa Persels, was born in Allegany Co., N. Y., February 9, 1835, and died at the home of his son, C. E. Persels, Farina, Ill., December 27, 1918, aged 83 years, 10 months, and 16 days. When about four years of age, his father having died, he was given a home with an uncle, Isaac Persels, of Niles, Mich. When a young man he removed to Milton, Wis., and on December 2, 1862, he was united in marriage to Miss Lucretia Randolph, Rev. O. P. Hull officiating. They lived on a farm near Milton until the spring of 1866, when he came to Farina. Purchasing land now owned by James Green, he prepared a home to which he moved his family in the autumn. Mr. Persels was the second of a family of five children, three of whom survive him. They are Mrs. C. M. Leonard and Miss Cornelia Persels, of Milton, Wis., and a half sister, Mrs. C. B. Marshall, Stillwater, Minn. His own family of six were Ida, who died in 1884, C. E. Persels of Farina, A. D. Persels, of Mattoon, Mrs. C. M. Young of Memphis, Tenn., Birdie, who died in infancy, and F. B. Persels, of Okmulgee, Okla. His companion was taken from him December 12, 1902. Since that time he has made his home with his children. On February 19, 1870, he was baptized by Elder C. M. Lewis and became a member of the Seventh Day Baptist church, remaining an esteemed member till the end. He was identified with the Farina Lodge A. F. and A. M. almost from its beginning, serving as treasurer for many years.
Mr. Persels was a factor in the growth and business interests of Farina almost from its beginning. He has been farmer and merchant. He was proprietor of the box factory for more than thirty years. He was one of the first to engage in the growing of berries and held a substantial interest in the business continuously till very recently. Another of the familiar landmarks of our village is fallen, a man who was respected for wholesome manners, integrity of character and sincere friendship. He will be missed, not only by his immediate family, but by the large circle of friends and associates. Funeral service was held Sunday at the residence of C. E. Persels, conducted by Elder L. D. Seager, Pastor Green being ill, and interment was made in the Farina cemetery.
