Joliet Illinois

Biography of James F. Kane

James F. Kane, born on April 3, 1858, in Joliet, Illinois, was raised in a Catholic family of eight children. After farming in Nebraska, he worked as a traveling salesman and assistant bookkeeper in New York City. In 1890, he moved to Pocatello, Idaho, where he initially worked for the Oregon Short Line Railroad before founding a successful grocery business. Married to Myra L. Hollingsworth, they had three children and were well-regarded in their community. Kane was active in local fraternal organizations.

Biography of Aaron B. Perine

Aaron B. Perine, a pioneering resident of Kansas since 1854, made significant contributions to the state’s development through his work with Native Americans and as a successful blacksmith and plow manufacturer. Born in New York in 1836, he faced early hardships but built a thriving business in Topeka, aided by his sons. A civic-minded individual, Perine remains active despite his age. His family lineage includes notable figures, and he is married to Mary E. Bodwell, a descendant of early Kansas settlers involved in the Underground Railroad.

Biographical Sketch of Charles B. Murray

Charles B. Murray, born on April 6, 1866, in Worcester, Massachusetts, was a distinguished chemist and metallurgist. He earned his B.S. degree from the Polytechnic Institute in 1887 and later held positions at various steel companies. Notably, he served as chief chemist at Eliza Johnson Works of Carnegie Steel Co. from 1893 to 1904 before establishing a commercial laboratory in Pittsburgh. In 1907, he partnered with Benedick Crowell, forming a prominent firm in Cleveland. Murray was also active in numerous professional societies and enjoyed tennis, squash, and bowling.

Biography of George W. Vaughn

George W. Vaughn, known as Major Vaughn, was a prominent figure in American railroad engineering, with a career spanning from the early days of railroads in the U.S. until his death in 1916. Born in New York in 1829, he displayed remarkable mechanical talent despite limited formal education. He significantly contributed to various railroads across the country, including the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway. His legacy includes innovative engineering feats and a lasting impact on the railroad industry in Kansas and beyond.

Biography of Theron H. Palmer

Theron H. Palmer, born on February 14, 1849, in Joliet, Illinois, became a notable architect and builder in Southern California. After serving in the Nineteenth Illinois Infantry during the Civil War, Palmer pursued mining in Montana before settling in California in 1867. He established himself as a pioneering architect in San Bernardino, designing prominent buildings such as the Occidental block and the ornate new hall of records. Married to Mabel E. Smith in 1886, Palmer also invested in local infrastructure and land development.

Biography of William McConochie

William McConochie, born in Scotland in 1847, emigrated to America with his family, settling in Joliet, Illinois. He joined the Union Army as a drummer boy during the Civil War and later became a skilled stonecutter. Settling in Rock Island, he married Isabel Kitson and had six children. McConochie served multiple terms as mayor, implementing significant municipal improvements like paving, a fire department, and a park system. A respected Republican and community leader, he was also active in the Methodist Church and Masonic organizations, earning admiration for his integrity and dedication.

Proebstel, Sandra D. Eich Mrs. – Obituary

Sandra D. Proebstel, 27, of La Grande, Oregon, passed away on September 6, 2001, at Grande Ronde Hospital. Born May 26, 1974, in Joliet, Illinois, she served in the U.S. Army where she met her husband, Joshua Proebstel. They married in 1997 and later moved to La Grande, where she attended Eastern Oregon University and worked as a nurse’s aide. She is survived by her husband, son, father, and other family members. No services were held per her request.

Biographical Sketch of Giddings, R. S.

R. S. Giddings, born in Seneca County, New York, in 1852, moved to Joliet, Illinois, in 1876, where he worked as a clerk in a dry goods store. He relocated to Russell in January 1878, initially serving as a clerk in a general merchandise store before becoming a partner in Giddings, Banker Co. His firm is noted for its enterprise and community value.