Obituary: Pioneer Farm Operator Gone. Herman Bathke is taken by death Saturday forenoon at home. Herman Bathke, resident of Petoskey for several years, died at the family home on State street Saturday forenoon following a two months' illness. He was 73 years of age and had homesteaded a farm at North Bay, Charlevoix county, in 1878. Mr. Bathke had not been in good health for many years and in 1912 and 1914 underwent several serious operations. About two months ago he suffered another attack of gall stones but was too weak to stand another operation. He continued up and about most of the time, however, and was down town visiting friends a part of Thursday. Saturday morning he seemed to suffer a sinking spell and a short while before his death passed into a quiet sleep. Born in Germany in 1855, Mr. Bathke came to the United States when about 18 years of age and a short time later located at North Bay. He married Miss Mary Brauer in Petoskey in 1880. Since retiring from the farm Mr. and Mrs. Bathke have made this city their home. He was a member of Zion Lutheran Church of Petoskey. Mr. Bathke enjoyed a wide acquaintance, particularly among the older residents of the region. He was appreciated for his quiet, kindly ways and the interest he always manifested in the welfare of all his friends and neighbors. Surviving besides the wife are seven children: Fred Bathke, William Bathke, Louis and Theodore Bathke of Petoskey; Albert Bathke at the old farm; Otto Bathke, of Lansing, and Miss Louise Bathke of Petoskey. One son, Paul Bathke, died in France while a member of the American army during the World War. The funeral service, which will be private, will be from the home probably some time Monday afternoon, with Rev. H.C. Schulz, pastor of Zion Lutheran Church, in charge. Burial will be in Greenwoo. Carrying out a wish often expressed the last year by Mr. Bathke, friends are asked to please omit flowers.