August RODER, one of the most prominent farmers of Pine Valley died at his home on Pleasant Ridge, Monday evening, August 24, after several months illness. Early in the year he had a stroke of appoplexy from which he never recovered. His wife's illness and her death later, also tended to weaken his hold on life. Mr. Roder was born in Silicia, Germany, June 4, 1857. When five years old he came with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Carl Roder, to America. They settled for a time in Sheboygan County, Wisconsin. Later the family moved to the town of Grant in Clark County. Here August grew to manhood, assisting in clearing the home farm. When 19 years of age he went out for himself, working out on farms and in lumber camps. He was one of the pioneer threshermen of the town of Grant, following this work for 27 seasons. He bought eighty acres (of) mostly wild land in Section 26 of Grant, which he cleared up and improved. In 1909 he bought the Mrs. R. W. King farm on Pleasant Ridge, just east of the fair grounds and moved there in order to give the children a better opportunity to attend school. Later he sold the farm in Grant. He took a live interest in public affairs, being a member of the town board in Grant for seven years and was considered a man of good judgment. He was honest and upright in his dealings, and had the respect and friendship of all who knew him.

Mr. Roder was married to Miss Elvira Ayers January 25, 1899. She preceded him in death only a few weeks, passing away July 18, 1925.

To Mr. and Mrs. Roder six children were born, five of whom are living. Margaret, (Mrs. Vine), living in the town of Grant, Carl, Alice, John and Ruth at home. He leaves also one brother, Paul Roder of Grant, two sisters, Mrs. Ernest Nitschke of Lynn and Mrs. Carl Krause of Grant. The funeral will be held Thursday afternoon at 1:30 at the house, and 2 o'clock at the Presbyterian church.

SOURCE: Neillsville Press, Aug 27, 1925, pg 1