George Ensley was born in New York County, Pa., Sept 12, 1815. His parents soon after moved to Ohio, living in Stark and Seneca counties. On December 13, 1838 Mr Ensley was married to Miss Lydia Noel, and three years later the young couple moved to DeKalb county, Indiana. This was then a dense forest, and Mr and Mrs Ensley endured all the privations of pioneer life. In 1868 they moved to Auburn, Indiana where Mr. Ensley became a prominent and highly esteemed citizen. Mrs. Ensley died in February 1883, and a few months later Mr. Ensley came to Los Angeles. Early in 1884 he located in Ontario, which has been his home up to the time of his death which occurred last Wednesday at the residence of his son, J. P. Ensley, on D street. His death was sudden though his health has not been the best for some time.
A funeral service was held on Friday evening, conducted by Rev. C. D Merrill, who read portions of the 43d and 50th chapters of Isiah, and made a brief address. The service was largely attended by sympathizing friends and neighbors. The remains were embalmed and sent to Auburn where more formal services will be held.
The deceased leaves eight children, all of whom attained manhood and womanhood; two, J. P. Ensley and Mrs J Stafford, are residents of Ontario; one of Nebraska and the others of Indiana. He had lived for his family, and rejoiced to see them grow up worthy and respected members of society. He was an excellent neighbor, a kind husband and loving father.
In 1845 he became a member of the Lutheran church under the ministry of Rev. Wm Albaugh. He led a consistent Christian life, and his last days were cheered by a firm trust in Christ. Surrounded by his children and friends, with every provision for his comfort. every provision for his comfort, he may be truly said to have been gathered to his fathers “like a shock of corn, fully ripe.”
He was respected here as one of the pioneers of the colony, of the strictest business integrity, taking an active interest in all that concerned the colony, up to his last sickness.
This document transcribed from the Research of Elizabeth Ensley Rathbun