Laban J. Gritten is consigned to grave Funeral for well known farmer held at country home wednesday Laban J. Gritten died at the home of his son, William Gritten, three miles northwest of Collison, Monday, March 28, at 6 o'clock a.m. Mr. Gritten was born in the state of Kentucky, January 19, 1831. He lived 75 years, 2 months, and 9 days. He came to Illinois with his parents, who settled in Blount township, Vermilion county, and he has been a resident of this county ever since. Mr. Gritten, when but a young man, moved to Pilot township and located in the northwest corner of the township, near No. 5 school house, where he entered a tract of land at 25 cents per acre from the government, and resided there until 1907. Since that time he has made his home with his children. Mr. Gritten has been married three times and has lost three wives by death. He is the father of 19 children, all of whom are dead but eight. Those who survive him are: Charles Gritten, Covington, Ind., Mrs. Dora Dingler, Rossville, Ill., Mrs. Dollie Elder, Danville, William Gritten, near Collison, Mrs. Remelia Grimes, Carlisle, Ind., George Gritten, Penfield, Laban Gritten, Penfield, Mrs. Clara Meyers, Chicago. There were born into these various families 40 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren of whom 38 grandchildren and all the great grandchildren survive him. He is survived also by one sister, Mrs. Anna Watson, who is 76 years of age, and lives in Blount township. Up to the last moments of his life he was perfectly conscious and in talking to the children said he was prepared to go at any time. About 22 years ago last January he lost his left arm, which was buried on teh home place. It was his request that it be taken up and buried with his body, which was accordingly done. The children were all present at his death except Mrs. Grimes, who was prevented by sickness from coming to his bedside. The funeral services were held at the home of William Gritten on Wednesday morning, and were conducted by the Rev. C.F. Gaumer of Alvin, assisted by the Rev. R.C. Read, of Collison, the remains being laid to rest in the Knight's Branch cemetery