Former Councilman George W. Ely died yesterday morning at 5 o'clock after only a short illness. He had been confined to his bed only a little over a week and his friends were not aware of the fact that his end was so near. He had been a sufferer from stomach trouble for some time. Death was caused by an acute attack of catarrh of the stomach and bowels.
George W. Ely was born in Owego, N.Y., June 22, 1836. He became a resident of Fort Wayne in 1863, when he engaged in the grocery business which he conducted until 1875. In 1884, he was elected to the common council as an independent from the Fourth Ward. In 1888 he was again elected. George W. Ely was the third of five children. He received a common school education and at the age of 14 removed with his parents to Wooster, O., where he entered a clothing store.
In 1863 he was married to Theresa H. Anderson, who was born in Ohio, and was the daughter of Calvin and Rebecca Anderson, old settlers of this city.
The last business enterprise with which Mr. Ely was connected was the Ely & Dilton grocery store. While a member of the council, he performed his duties in an upright and honest way. As a man he was well liked and had many friends.
The funeral will take place Thursday afternoon at 3 o'clock from the residence, corner of Berry and Lafayette Streets. Rev. Dr. Moffat will officiate.
Fort Wayne Gazette; Allen County, Indiana
June 9, 1897