Clarence Benedict (Uncle Ben) Michels, 66, died of a heart attack at the home of his sister, Mrs. May Graaff here Tuesday [April 16, 1957]. He had been in ill health for some time.
Born Jul 29, 1890, he attended Ellensburg schools, Gonzaga University and Seattle University. He was married in 1922 in Pasco to Veda Stevens, who preceded him in death in 1931.
He was a member of St. Andrew’s Catholic Church, and a charter member of Austin-Rees-Wheeler post of the American Legion, having served with Co., C, 18th Engineers, AEF, in France. He was past grand knight of Parodi Council Knights of Columbus.
He had been engaged in mining activities and was interested in the Mitchell Mining Co. and the Columbia Mining Co., operating in the Butte-Helena, Mont. area, at the time of his death.
For the past four years he had made his home with his sister, Mrs. Graaff. Also surviving are a stepson, James Stevens, Spokane; three brothers, Rev. J. R. Michels, O. P., Ross, Calif.; Bernard Michels, Ellensburg; C. J. Michels, Seattle, and a number of nieces and nephews.
Rosary service will be at St. Andrew’s Church Sunday evening following the 7 o’clock mass. Requiem mass will be Monday morning at 9 o’clock at St. Andrew’s Church and burial will follow in Holy Cross Cemetery.
Note: The obituary listed Clarence’s last name as Mitchell.
Contributed by: Shelli Steedman