Sons of Men - Evansville's War Record
Gold Star Biographies
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John Boswell Torian United States Navy March 3, 1892 - October 2, 1918

   John Boswell Torian was the second Evansville sailor to die of the
influenza. He was born March 3, 1892, in Evansville. His education
in this city was completed when he graduated from the local high
school. He attended Wabash College, and was a member of the class
of 1914.  His popularity gained him admission in the Beta Theta Pi
Fraternity in college. In this city he belonged to the Crescent Club,
Country Club, and the St. Paul's Episcopal Church. In May, 1918, he
volunteered in the navy and was sent to the Great Lakes Training
Station. He was later transferred to Hampton Roads, Va. Here he con-
tracted the influenza which developed double pneumonia. His mother
and brother, Garnett, went to his bedside, but could not save him.
Death came October 2, 1918.

   The Evansville Courier said of this optimistic, versatile volunteer:
'Jack' Torian was one of the city's most popular young men. Intelligent
and quick witted, he was the life of social gatherings and his keenness
and astuteness won for him an enviable place in business centers.
He was secretary and traveling salesman for the Torian & Barbour Hat
Company.  His cheerful, sunny disposition won for him a wide acquaintance.
It is safe to say that 'Jack' was never seen without a smile. In his
death the city loses one of its most promising young men."
_____

Sons of Men: Evansville's War Record,
Compiled by Heiman Blatt,
Published by Abe P. Madison, 1920
p175.

cdmyers@wowway.com
October 25, 1998