Obituary of Charles Clapp

July 1979 - Charles Clapp was born in Albion, Dec. 3, 1855, and died at his summer home near Nevis, Minn., July 2, 1929, aged 73 years, 6 Mo. and 29 days.

He married Flora Belle Woodruff Nov. 10, 1873. To their union three children were born. Dr. Fred R. Clapp of South Bend, Ind.; Inez, who died in infancy and Mrs. H. D. Thomas of Albion. He is also survived by his wife, one granddaughter, Mrs. Don E. Metz, of Bowling Green, Ohio and one sister, Mrs. T. A. Starr of Goshen, Ind.

While a young man he engaged in the banking business in Albion as an associate of his father, Judge Wm. M. Clapp, and a few years later, upon the death of his father, assumed full charge of the business. At the age of 53 he retired from the active management of the business but continued to serve for many years as president and as a member of the Board of directors, finally resigning these positions also to make way for younger men. During his business career he was active not only in looking after his own affairs but those of the business with which he was connected, but also in advancing the interest of his town and community.

Charles Clapp was a good citizen, a true friend, a helpful neighbor and a loving husband and father. He will live long in the memory, respect and appreciation of those who had the privilege of knowing him in these relationships. He was often spoken of by the younger business men of the community as Daddy Clapp. One of these men suggested the following lines written by Carleton Nelson which may be applied to Mr. Clapp;

Never had much style about him, never cared for dress
Sorto’ spent his life sowin’ seeds of happiness
Doin’ little things for others, helpin’ where he could,
Nevr makin’ much pretention, always doin’ good
Home, for him was all for livin’ filled his heart with pride
And his doors were ever open, latchstrings hung outside.
Folks who came were always welcome, loved to have them round
Wanted much of joy and laughter, seemed to love the sound.
Had his cares and had his troubles, same as all of us;
Figured them a part of livin’, never made much fuss;
Made the best of all God gave him, as through life he went,
Ever toiling, giving, taking, kind, and provident
Vain the tribute we would pay him, words cannot express
What it meant to have him with us and our thankfulness;
Sweet the memory he has left us, though our hearts are sad;
Great the blessing that was given, just to call him DAD.

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