Michael Gorman, resident of Jones County for 75 years, one of the best known and beloved pioneers of eastern Iowa, died at the home of is daughter, Mrs. D. L. Power, of Cedar Rapids, Saturday, May 16, 1931 in his 77th year.
Funeral services were held at St. Patrick’s church, Anamosa, Monday morning, May 18. Mr. Gorman had been a member of the local Catholic parish for the last 27 years, since removing to the farm north of the fairgrounds, which he purchased before his removal here.
Michael Gorman was born on a farm in Cook county, Illinois March 2,1855. His parents were John Gorman and Mary Ann Rooney Gorman. A published history states that the farm is now in the heart of the great city of Chicago, its southern line having been what is now Randolph street. His parents were both natives of Sligo, Ireland, and were married in Troy, New York. From Chicago the family came to Jones county in 1857 where the elder Mr. Gorman took a contract on the proposed Air Line railroad, a part of the grade being still traceable near Wyoming in Big Bear creek valley. Mr. Gorman, Sr. settled with the family in Hale township and engaged in farming until coming to Anamosa in 1902. Michael remained on the home farm during his youth.
On February 12, 1882, Michael Gorman and Miss Margaret Cavey were married and began wedded life on a farm purchased in Hale township. In 1904 they removed to a farm purchased a mile from Anamosa and which has since been the family home.
Ten children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Gorman, seven of whom have survived, and three dying in their infancy.
Mr. Gorman invested heavily of his earnings from farm land in Jones and Jackson counties. He was successful in most of his ventures, but the collapse of crop prices and consequent depression of land values made his declining years a time that tried the souls of more sturdy men. He was always public spirited and took an interest in public affairs. In addition to his activities in church affairs he allowed his name to be used as a candidate for state senator and also for county supervisor. He never……..called upon to do his part he did not fail to do a man’s service. Mr. Gorman was a man or more than ordinary ability, possessed a ready wit, and always an entertaining companion, able to talk intelligently on public questions either in public or in conversation. He has written a creditable page into the history of this county by his good citizenship and helpful associations.

Submitted by: Mary Kay Kuhfittig
Source: Wyoming Journal, Wyoming Iowa, 28 May 1931, page 1, col. 2