Hydro Worker Killed By Train – Drill Caught on Train Causing Tragedy

Paul E. Bower, 24 year old son of John Bower, of  this county, was killed last Thursday, at Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada. Mr. Bower was in charge of a crew building a power plant for the City of Ontario. He was employed by the Hydro-Electric Co. of Niagara Falls.

A large derrick was being used in the drilling operation and for some unknown reason, a work train backed down, striking the derrick and knocking it over. The derrick fell on Mr. Bower killing him instantly. Mr. Bower’s home was in Toronto where his wife resides.

A coroner’s jury later returned a verdict of accidental death.

Paul was born in Olney, Illinois April 18, 1896, son of John and Jemima F. (Hammel) Bower. He married a Canadian, Elizabeth Bolton.

Paul E. Bower was a graduate of the  the Olney Township High School and the University of Illinois with the class of 1917, College of agriculture and while in school was a member of the Agriculture Club and Hoof and Horn Club.

He enlisted and served overseas in the world war with the Royal Flying Corps of Canada.

Funeral services were held in Toronto and was buried there.

Mr. Bower is survived by his wife, Elizabeth; a daughter; his father, John Bower, one brother, C.A. Bower and two sisters, Miss Ella J. Bower and Mrs. H.L. Trim.

He was preceded in death by his mother.

Olney Advocate (IL) – Thursday, January 13, 1921, The Olney Times (IL) & The Urbana Daily Courier (Urbana, IL) - January 28, 1921