Hugh McGeehan's Obituary
Death of Aged Resident
Hugh McGeehan Sr., Passed Away Yesterday Morning
Hugh McGeehan, Sr., one of the best known residents of this region, died of diseases incident to old age at "The Homestead," West Broad street, about 1:30 o'clock yesterday morning. Mr. McGeehan had been stricken by his last illness over a week ago. During the past few days, however, he rallied and it was not thought that his end was so near. After 12 o'clock Thursday night he seemed as strong as usual, but heart failure caused a weakening and he passed away within five minutes after the attack.
Mr. McGeehan was aged 78 years. He was born in County Donegal, Ireland, and came to this country in 1849. He located in this ciy and for many years conducted "The Homestead," which was one of the original taverns of Hazleton. About 18 years ago Mr. McGeehan retired from business and took up his residence in West Hazleton. He remained in that town until two weeks ago, when he returned to the "Homestead," where he passed away. Deceased was identified with the interests of West Hazleton ever since the starting of that town, and was a prominent factor in the development of the borough. Deceased was married to Miss Mary Keirnan shortly after his arrival in this country. She preceded him in death four years ago.
Mr. McGeehan was a kindly old gentleman and highly esteemed by all his acquaintances. Several years ago he was stricken almost totally blind by cataracts on the eyes, but he bore the affliction of his old age with a fortitude that was truly admirable. He is survived by the following children: John J., Hugh and James, of West Hazleton; Mrs. John Gough and Mrs. John Burns, of this city, and Dr. E.J. McGeehan, of McAdoo. Three brothers and two sisters also survive him. They are James and Daniel, of this city; Patrick, of Ireland; Mrs. Susan Lockman and Mrs. Rose McGlynn, of this city.
The funeral will take place Monday morning at 9 o'clock. Interment in St. Gabriel's cemetery will be preceded by a High Mass at 10 o'clock in St. Gabriel's church. (Hazleton Daily Standard, Saturday, 18 Apr 1903)