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Death of a Pioneer
Gustavious A. Belser Succumbs to Effects of a Paralytic Stroke

Gustavious A. Belser, one of the oldest pioneers of Pajaro Valley, died at his home on Lincoln street this forenoon at 11:30 o'clock as the result of a stroke of paralysis. Yesterday afternoon he appeared to be in his usual health and was able to be out, but at 10 o'clock last night a stroke of paralysis seized him and he soon lost consciousness, remaining in that state until he died. Deceased was born in Germany 73 years ago and came to Pajaro Valley in 1853. He was actively engaged in farming in this valley until 1891, being on the Otto Stoesser ranch almost continuously for twenty years. In 1891 he entered the employ of Otto Stoesser in this city and was in charge of the warehouse and wood yard until last December when failing eyesight, with which he had been troubled for many years forced him to retire from active employment.

Gustavious Belser was faithful in all that he undertook to do and could be relied upon at all times. He possessed a kindly nature and had many friends who have learned with regret of his demise. He has rounded out a long life, his race is run, he has joined the hosts that have crossed the Great Divide, and will henceforth be known to earthly activities no more. Deceased is survived by a widow and six children- four boys and two girls- to whom the sympathy of the people of this community is offered.

The funeral will take place from the family home Friday afternoon at 2 o'clock.

Watsonville Pajaronian (August 17, 1904)

DIED -- Gustavius A. Belser a native of Germany aged 72 years.

Friends and acquaintances are respectfully invited to attend the funeral which will take place from family residence No. 264 Lincoln Street at 2 o'clock tomorrow (Friday) afternoon under the auspices of R.L. McCook Post G.A.R. Interment at Odd Fellows cemetery.

Date of Birth: 1832

Date of Death: 1904-17-08

County: Santa Cruz

Cemetery/City of Burial: Santa Cruz County

Plot: GAR-g

Cause of Death: Strk/Relted

Occupation: Farmer

Height: 5'10

Complexion: Lt

Eye Color: Gr

Hair Color: Gr

Local Address: Lincoln St. 264

Last City: Watsonville

Native of: GE

Military Unit: USA_ 3 Art_ Co K

Rank: Sgt

Military Notes: On SSS DB 04/04 (Not on HDS)

GAR#: N/R

Available records used to obtain information:
Cemetery records
Santa Cruz County death records
Military records
Santa Cruz and Monterey newspapers
Voter Records

CW Reference: PAJ 1904/08/17