William John Link, Walt’s grandfather, was born on February 10, 1884, in West Point to Isadore and Teresa Kempker Link. He was born in the Kempker family home above the store as told in this post. The Links lived on a farm outside of West Point.
W.J. was character, to say the least. There are many stories about him and the various jobs he did. He had a threshing machine and a steam tractor, and traveled to the Dakotas to help harvest. He pulled stumps and laid drain tile for some of the roads around Lee county.
W.J. married Elizabeth Wellman on August 2, 1916 at St. Mary’s Church in West Point. They lived for a time on the Bruegenhempke place west of town.
W.J. and Lizzie had 5 children, four girls and a son who died at the age of two. They lived in West Point until his death on February 4th, 1957.
Sandy
Gosh, my grandpa died just one year later. I still remember him lying in the living room while family and friends came to pay their respect. We kids, the Nelsons, were always a little scared of him, at least I was, but I was scared of a lot! Enjoy seeing these old photos!
Walt
My brothers also recall being scared of him. There seems to be something about our family that comes across as intimidating. My mom definitely had it, and I’ve been told by others that I do too. I’m really not sure what it is that’s so scary, but sometimes it comes in handy.
Glad you’re enjoying the photos!