Decatur Illinois

Biography of Andrew Charles Maroney

Andrew Charles Maroney, born on September 23, 1862, in Decatur, Illinois, is a prominent lawyer in St. Louis, esteemed for his expertise and sought after by fellow attorneys. A graduate of the St. Louis Law School in 1894, he has built a successful practice marked by logical analysis and sound legal opinions. A dedicated public servant, he has held various positions, notably cleaning up the police department, which earned him recognition and respect. Maroney is noted for his integrity, eloquence, and commitment to justice.

Biography of Louis W. Grosse, M.D.

Dr. Louis W. Grosse, born October 13, 1884, in Collinsville, Illinois, was a prominent physician and surgeon in St. Louis. He graduated from St. Louis University with an M.D. in 1906 and completed a year as an interne before entering private practice. He also served as a surgeon at Deaconess and Lutheran Hospitals. Active in medical associations, he married Martha Theobald in 1920 and enjoys golf in his leisure time. Dr. Grosse was politically aligned with the Republican Party and practiced his faith at the Messiah Lutheran Church.

Biography of Charles W. Holtcamp

Charles W. Holtcamp, born on September 1, 1859, in Decatur, Illinois, has served as probate judge of St. Louis for four consecutive terms, demonstrating significant legal and civic engagement. A graduate of Illinois College and Washington University, Holtcamp combined his legal career with business leadership as president of Blanke-Wenneker Candy Company. He was also active in the military and numerous fraternal organizations. Married in 1913, Holtcamp is noted for his fairness and integrity, earning him respect and numerous reelections.

Biography of G. W. McDowell

G. W. McDowell, born April 12, 1832, in Virginia, has been a prominent merchant in Yellville since 1868. He moved through various locations, including St. Louis and Decatur, before establishing his business in Yellville. McDowell has faced business challenges yet remains a successful entrepreneur, with annual sales between $6,000 and $10,000. A committed Democrat and active church member, he has served as Marion County treasurer and is involved with the Masonic order. He married Rachel Wilson and had four children, with two surviving.

Biography of Wilbur F. George

Wilbur F. George, born in Illinois in 1860, moved to Kansas in 1870, overcoming hardships through hard work and determination. After early struggles, including a devastating grasshopper plague, he became a successful farmer and businessman, settling in Menoken Township. Married in 1883, he raised six children while engaging in various ventures, including grain buying and fruit farming. A Democrat and active in community improvement, George’s contributions extended to education and local churches, aided by his supportive wife, Ida. He is known for his resourcefulness and modern farming practices.

Biography of Napoleon B. Burge

Napoleon B. Burge, originally from Indiana, moved to Kansas as a child and established himself as a prominent figure in the state’s real estate and investment sectors. In 1910, he founded the Elmhurst Investment Company, which specialized in bonds, mortgages, and real estate development across multiple states. A dedicated community member, Burge also engaged in local politics and served in various capacities within business organizations. He was married to Amelia Martin and was active in the Presbyterian Church, contributing significantly to Kansas’s commercial landscape.

Biography of William Henry Wilson

William Henry Wilson, born April 16, 1842, in New York, moved to Topeka in 1877 after serving as a sergeant in the Civil War. He became a successful druggist and a dedicated member of the Topeka Board of Education for 16 years, greatly contributing to local education. A distinguished Mason, he attained numerous honors within the fraternity. Married twice, he fathered several children, and remained active in business and community service well into his seventies, earning respect as both a merchant and a civic leader.

Biographical Sketch of Willis B. Hale

Willis B. Hale, born on June 17, 1847, in Decatur, Illinois, was a prominent figure in brokerage and real estate. He graduated as valedictorian from Union College in 1870 and later became the president of the Delta Phi Fraternity. Married to Clara Worthington in 1873, they had four children. Hale served as cashier and vice president of E. B. Hale Co., which became Marine Bank Co. He also founded Hale Electric Engineering Co. and held directorships in various companies while being an active member of several clubs.

Biography of T. D. Cox

T. D. Cox, born April 24, 1869, in Decatur, Illinois, has been a significant figure in Vinita’s commercial growth for over 25 years, notably as a partner in the Craig County Motor Company. His early life involved learning the sawmill trade and limited formal education. He held various roles, including deputy U.S. marshal and salesman, and engaged in several business ventures. Married to Mary Costo, he has two children and actively participates in community improvement and local organizations, embodying a spirit of determination and progress.

Biography of George Washington Wingate

George Washington Wingate, born on August 30, 1861, in Delaware, epitomizes a life of diverse contributions in agriculture, business, finance, and public service in Liberty, Kansas. Following in his father’s footsteps, he became a successful businessman and dedicated community leader. He held various public offices, including city clerk and postmaster, and was instrumental in establishing the State Bank of Liberty. Wingate’s commitment to education and morality is evident through his extensive community involvement. He married Ida M. Thornton and had five children.

Biography of William H.Tyler

William H. Tyler, born on February 28, 1858, in Decatur, Illinois, served as Wilson County’s treasurer starting in 1914, marking a Democratic win after a 16-year drought. Renowned for his financial acumen, Tyler’s career spanned farming and banking. A prominent community figure, he was active in local politics and held various public office roles. He married Minnie B. (Estes) White in 1915. Tyler’s legacy as a capable, progressive official and dedicated citizen is well established in Wilson County history.

Biography of George Pierson Morehouse

George Pierson Morehouse played a significant role in Kansas’s development through his diverse engagements in agriculture, law, and politics. Born in Illinois in 1859, he adapted to frontier life, eventually excelling academically in the East. A prominent Republican, he served in various political capacities, including state senator, where he championed education, women’s suffrage, and railroad initiatives. An esteemed historian and genealogist, he contributed significantly to local cultural pursuits, preservation efforts, and literary organizations, exemplifying dedication to both his heritage and his community.

Jones, Karen L. – Obituary

Karen L. Jones, 57, of La Grande, passed away on August 27 after a lengthy battle with cancer. Born on April 1, 1950, in Decatur, Illinois, she later moved to Southern California and married Clifton Guy Jones in 1999. A celebration of her life will be held at Loveland Funeral Chapel. Karen is remembered for her passion for gardening and her work as a cook. She is survived by her husband, daughter, brother, sister, and grandchildren.

Biographical Sketch of William Burgess

William Burgess, a prominent boot and shoe manufacturer, was born on October 12, 1827, in North Molton, England. He emigrated to the United States in 1849, working in various locations in New York and Pennsylvania before establishing his store in Mattoon, Illinois, in 1860. He returned to England briefly in 1855 and later traveled through Canada and Michigan. Burgess married Agnes Evans in 1862 and had three children, becoming a key figure in the community as a businessman and a member of the City Council.