Ruth O. Mark

Notes:

Cass City Chronicle
Wednesday, February 24, 1993

Ruth Wurtsmith

Mrs. Ruth (Mark) Wurtsmith, widow of Dr. F.L. Wurtsmith, died Feb. 13.

She was born in Cass City, the daughter of Edward and Mary Mark.

She is survived by a daughter, Carole, and her husband, James Mazurek, and their son, Jimmy, and daughter, Jamie; a son, Paul, and his wife, Heidi, and their children, Paul, Todd, Nicole and Greta, and 4 great-grandchildren.

Also surviving are 6 sisters and one brother-in-law, Mrs. Stella Martus, Cass City, Mrs. Emeline Urquhart, Caseville, Mrs. Mary Leeson, Pigeon, Mrs. Betty McLeod, Flushing, Mrs. Fran Kehoe, Cass City, and Mrs. Bonnie Dill and husband, Dick, Pigeon. Also sisters-in-law, Mrs. Gerry Mark, Flushing, Mrs. Millie Mark, Cass City, and Mrs. Phyllis Wheeler, Cass City, and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, one sister, Grace Mark, and 3 brothers, Leitch, James and Archie.

A memorial service was held Feb. 16 at the Grosse Pte. Woods Presbyterian Church with the Rev. Dr. Jack Ziegler officiating.

Burial was in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.

(Transcribed by Melinda McLemore Strong, August 2008)

Ruth married Ferdinand L. Wurtsmith, D.D.S. on 3 Mar 1938 in Mt. Clemens, Macomb County, Michigan. Ferdinand was born on 29 Feb 1904 in Saginaw County, Michigan; died on 20 May 1949 in Grosse Pointe Woods, Wayne County, Michigan. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Married:
Cass City Chronicle
Friday, March 11, 1938
Page 1

Wurtsmith-Mark Wedding at Mt. Clemens

A lovely wedding took place on Thursday, March 3, in St. Louis rectory at Mt. Clemens when Miss Ruth Mark, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Mark, of Cass City was united in marriage with Dr. F.L. Wurtsmith, son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Wurtsmith, of Detroit. They were attended by Miss Mary Mark of Cass City, sister of the bride, and Lieut. Paul Wurtsmith of Selfridge Field, brother of the groom.

Following the wedding, a reception was held at the home of Lt. and Mrs. Paul Wurtsmith at Selfridge Field.

The bride was attired in a becoming three-piece suit of beige color and wore a corsage of orchids. Miss Mark, as maid of honor, wore a gown of blue with a corsage of gardenias.

Dr. and Mrs. Wurtsmith left, immediately following the reception, on a two weeks' motor trip to Florida. On their return they will reside in Detroit. The bride is a graduate nurse from Harper hospital and had been employed there since her graduation.

Dr. Wurtsmith graduated from the dental department at University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.

Mrs. Edward Mark, Mrs. W.E. Martus and Miss Mary Mark from Cass City attended the wedding. Other guests were Mr. and Mrs. Fred Wurtsmith of Detroit, Mr. and Mrs. Paul Wurtsmith of Selfridge Field; C.A. Smith of Caro; Mrs. Jane Leitch and Mrs. L.G. Carpenter of Pontiac.

(Transcribed by Melinda McLemore Strong, Fall 2007)

1. Living
2. Paul Mark Wurtsmith was born on 25 Jan 1944 in Michigan; died on 26 Dec 2006.

Notes:

A list of pupils at the Wright Rural School #4 in 1897 include Alice Striffler, Arlis Vaughan, Chancy Boulton, Emma Cole, Esther Blades, Effie Wallace, Eddie Mark, Frank Cranick, Flossie Wright, Georgie Dennis, Johnie Hulburt, Lizzie Yoos, Lena Mark, Luke Wright, Mary Mark, Minta Wallace, Alice Charlton, Ada Cole, Chester Dennis, Ethel Cole, Etta Wickware, Ethel Charlton, Frank Striffler, Fred Yoos, George Cole, John Wallace, Lizzie Blades, Lillie Wallace, Lenne Striffler, Martha Wright, May Dennis, Ray Hulbert, Stanley Hulbert. Grace Karr, teacher and S. Striffler, Director.

When he registered for the World War I draft, he was farming for himself in Elkland Township, and supporting his wife and five children. He was of both medium heighth and build, with blue eyes and light hair.

Cass City Chronicle
January 21, 1982
Page 8

Rites held for Edward Mark, 93

Edward Albert Mark, 93, a lifelong resident of the Cass City area, died Wednesday, Jan. 13, at Provincial House after a long illness.

He was born Jan. 1, 1889, in Elkland Township, the son of Archibald and Emeline (Striffler) MARK.

He married Mary LEITCH July 15, 1908, in Caro. They made their home in Cass City. Mrs. Mark died May 26, 1965.

Mark is survived by seven daughter, Mrs. William (Stella) MARTUS and Mrs. Elmer (Frances) KEHOE, both of Cass City, Mrs. Russell (Mary) LEESON, Pigeon, Mrs. Ruth WURTSMITH, Grosse Pointe Woods, Mrs. Emeline URQUHART, Caro, Mrs. Betty McLEOD, Sandusky, and Mrs. Richard (Bonnie) DILL, St. Louis, Mo.; one son, Archie MARK of Flushing; three sisters, Mrs. Mary BUEHRLY, Ubly, Mrs. Martha DARLING, Marlette and Mrs. Lena SCHWEGLER, Cass City; 26 grandchildren and 46 great-grandchildren. One daughter, Grace, two sons, Leitch and James, and one sister, Alma SEEGER, preceded him in death.

Funeral services were conducted Saturday afternoon at Little's Funeral Home, Cass City, with Rev. Eldred Kelley of the Salem United Methodist Church officiating.

Burial was in Elkland Cemetery.

(Transcribed by Melinda McLemore Strong, Winter 2007)

(Research):
Census Listings:

1920 Census
Michigan, Tuscola County, Elkland Twp
Enumerated 17 Jan 1920
SD 7 ED 178 Sheet 4A
81-84
Mark, Archie Head M W 57 M 1877 Pa Canada English England English Scotland English Farmer
Mark, Emeline Wf F W59 M Mich English New York State German Germany German
Mark, Alma Dtr F W 24 S Mich Canada English Mich Bookkeeper Hardware Store
82-85
Mark, Edward Head M W 31 M Mich Canada English Mich Laborer On Farm
Mark, Mary Wf F W 30 M Mich Canada English Canada English
Mark, Stella Dtr F W 10 S Mich Mich Mich
Mark, Ruth Dtr F W 8 S Mich Mich Mich
Mark, Emeline Dtr F W 6 S Mich Mich Mich
Mark, Grace Dtr F W 5 S Mich Mich Mich
Mark, Leitch Son m W 3 6/12 S Mich Mich Mich
Mark, Mary Dtr F W 1 6/12 S Mich Mich Mich

1930 Census
Michigan, Tuscola County, Elkland Twp, Cass City Village
Enumerated Apr 18, 1930
ED 79-11 SD 11 Sheet 6A Stamped 189
Woodland Avenue
159-168
Mark, Edward A Head M W m19 Mich Mich Mich Mechanic Implement
Mark, Mary J Wf F W 41 M 19 Mich Canada Canada
Mark, Ruth O (ab) Dtr F W 19 S Mich Mich Mich
Mark, Emeline Dtr F W 17 S Mich Mich Mich Servant Family
Mark, A. Leitch Son M W 13 S Mich Mich Mich Laborer Family
Mark, Mary A Dtr F W 11 S Mich Mich Mich Servant Family
Mark, Archie R Son M W 9 S Mich Mich Mich Choreboy Family
Mark, Betty R Dtr F W 7 S Mich Mich Mich
Mark, Frances L Dtr F W 5 S Mich Mich Mich
Mark, Bonnie Doreen Dtr F W 3 5/12 S Mich Mich Mich
Mark, James Edward Son M W 11/12 S Mich Mich Mich

Edward married Mary Jane Leitch on 15 Jul 1908 in Caro, Tuscola County, Michigan. Mary (daughter of Angus Leitch and Jane McVannell) was born on 9 Apr 1889 in Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan; died on 26 May 1965 in Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan; was buried on 28 May 1965 in Elkland Township Cemetery, Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Cass City Chronicle
Thursday, May 27, 1965
Page Three

Mrs. Mark Dies at Local Hospital

Mrs. Edward Mark, 76, of Cass City died Wednesday morning in Cass City Hospital shortly after being admitted. She had been in ill health for some time.

The remains were taken to Little's Funeral Home where arrangements are pending.

Cass City Chronicle
Thursday, June 3, 1965
Page Two

Services Held for Mrs. Edward Mark

Funeral services for Mrs. Edward (Mary) Mark, 76, were held Friday, May 28, at Little's Funeral Home following her death Wednesday, May 26, at Cass City Hospital where she had just been admitted. She had been in ill health the past several years.

Born in Cass City April 9, 1889, she was the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Angus LEITCH. She married Edward Mark in Caro, July 15, 1908, and they made their home in Cass City where she lived until her death.

Mrs. Mark attended the Evangelical United Brethren Church and was a member of the Echo Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star of Cass City.

Surviving, besides her husband, are: seven daughters, Mrs. William (Stella) MARTUS, Mrs. Elmer (Frances) KEHOE and Mrs. Russell (Mary) LEESON, all of Cass City; Mrs. Ruth WURTSMITH of Detroit, Mrs. Emeline URQUHART of Caro, Mrs. Donald (Betty) McLEOD of Sandusky and Mrs. Richard (Bonnie) DILL of Cincinnati, Ohio, and three sons, Leitch and Jim, both of Cass City, and Archie of Flushing.

Also surviving are: two sisters, Mrs. Grace CARPENTER of Delray Beach, Florida, and Mrs. John SIMKINS of Lapeer; 24 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. A daughter preceded her in death.

Rev. Roberts Betts, EUB Church, officiated and interment was in Elkland Cemetery.

(Transcribed by Melinda McLemore Strong, Winter 2007)

Notes:

Married:
Cass City Chronicle
July 17, 1908
Local Items, Page 4

Edward Marks and Miss Mary Leach (sic) were married at Caro Wednesday afternoon. The ceremony was performed by Rev. Kerns, pastor of the Presbyterian church. The Chronicle joins their many friends in extending congratulations.

(Transcribed by Melinda McLemore Strong, October 2008)

Notes:

The Striffler Benkelman Broadcast, Volume 8, September 3, 1945, published, in a Column titled "Around the World with our Service Boys" (page 2), that Cpl. Archie Mark is located in Cham, Germany.

Cass City Chronicle
August 31, 1934
Page 5

Archie Mark

Archie Mark, whose death occurred August 25, was born March 22, 1862, in Whitby Township, Ontario. At the age of 14, he came to Michigan and was employed in the lumber woods, later coming to Cass City and engaging in farming.

In 1886, he was united in marriage with Miss Emeline Striffler. To this union five children were born, all of whom survive. He leaves to mourn his faithful companion; one son, Edward Mark; four daughters, Mrs. Mary Buehrly, Mrs. Lena Schwegler, Mrs. Martha Darling, and Mrs. Alma Krahling, all of Cass City; 20 grandchildren; four brothers, Robert of Saskatchewan; Thomas of Idaho; Walter and John of Cass City; and two sisters, Mrs. Jane Muntz and Mrs. Johanna Wright of Alberta.

Funeral Services were held at the residence Monday afternoon, conducted by Rev. G.A. Spitler. Interment was made in Elkland cemetery.

(Transcribed by Melinda McLemore Strong, Summer 2007)

Name Archie Mark
Event Type Death
Event Date 25 Aug 1934
Event Place Elkland, Tuscola, Michigan, United States
Gender Male
Age 72
Marital Status Married
Birth Date 22 Mar 1862
Birthplace Ontario
Birth Year (Estimated) 1862
Father's Name Walter Mark
Mother's Name Elizabeth Mclean
GS Film number 001973113
Digital Folder Number 005240515
Image Number 01647

Citing this Record:
"Michigan, Death Certificates, 1921-1952," index, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/KF7N-TG4 : accessed 29 Jul 2013), Archie Mark, 1934.

(Research):

Census Listings:

1900 Census
Michigan, Tuscola County, Elkland Twp excluding Cass City Village
Enumerated 12 Jun 1900
SD 8 ED 110 Sheet 6B
125-125
Marks, Archibald Head W M March 1862 38 M 13 Canada (Eng) England Canada (Eng) 1884 16 Ca Farm Laborer Yes Yes Yes
Marks, Emline Wf W F Sept 1860 39 m 13 5/5 Mich NY Germany
Marks, Albert E Son W M Jan 1889 11 S Mich Canada (Eng) Michigan At School
Marks, Mary E Dtr W F July 1890 9 S Mich Canada (Eng) Michigan
Marks, Johanna M Dtr W F Feb 1892 8 S Mich Canada (Eng) Michigan
Marks, Martha A Dtr W F Nov 1893 6 S Mich Canada (Eng) Michigan
Marks, Alma M Dtr W F Aug 1895 4 S Mich Canada (Eng) Michigan
126-126
John and Mary Striffler and family

1910 Census
Michigan, Tuscola County, Elkland Twp
Enumerated 20-21 Apr 1910
SD 8 ED 112 Sheet 2B
40-42
Mark, Archa Head M W 48 M1 23 Canada (Eng) England Canada (Eng) 1885 16 Nat Laborer On Farm
Mark, Emeline Wf F W 49 m1 23 -/- Mich NY Germany
Mark, Edward Son M W 21 m1 1 Mich Canada (Eng) Michigan Laborer Home Farm
Mark, Mary E Dtr F W 19 S Mich Canada (Eng) Michigan
Mark, J. Lena M Dtr F W 18 S Mich Canada (Eng) Michigan
Mark, Martha A Dtr F W 16 S Mich Canada (Eng) Michigan
Mark, Alma M Dtr F W 14 S Mich Canada (Eng) Michigan
Mark, Mary Dtr-in-law F W 21 m1 1 0/0 Mich Canada Galic Canada Galic English

1920 Census
Michigan, Tuscola County, Elkland Twp
Enumerated 17 Jan 1920
SD 7 ED 178 Sheet 4A
81-84
Mark, Archie Head M W 57 M 1877 Pa Canada English England English Scotland English Farmer
Mark, Emeline Wf F W59 M Mich English New York State German Germany German
Mark, Alma Dtr F W 24 S Mich Canada English Mich Bookkeeper Hardware Store
82-85
Mark, Edward Head M W 31 M Mich Canada English Mich Laborer On Farm
Mark, Mary Wf F W 30 M Mich Canada English Canada English
Mark, Stella Dtr F W 10 S Mich Mich Mich
Mark, Ruth Dtr F W 8 S Mich Mich Mich
Mark, Emeline Dtr F W 6 S Mich Mich Mich
Mark, Grace Dtr F W 5 S Mich Mich Mich
Mark, Leitch Son m W 3 6/12 S Mich Mich Mich
Mark, Mary Dtr F W 1 6/12 S Mich Mich Mich

1930 Census
Michigan, Tuscola, Elkland Twp, Cass City Village
Enumerated April 30, 1930
SD 79-11 SD 11 Sheet 11A Stamped 194
East Third
293-310
Mark Archibald Head M W 67 M 29 Canada England Canada English 1876 Com Laborer Bldg
Mark, Emeline S Wf F W 69 M Mich NY Germany
Striffler, Mary Sister-in-law F W 57 S Mich NY Germany Servant Family

Archibald married Emeline Striffler on 23 Dec 1886 in Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan. Emeline (daughter of John "Uncle John" Striffler and Anna Maria "Mary" Benkelman) was born on 5 Sep 1860 in Elkland Township, Tuscola County, Michigan; died on 21 Oct 1939 in Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan; was buried in Elkland Township Cemetery, Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Cass City Chronicle
Friday, October 27, 1939
Page 6

Mrs. Archie Mark

Mrs. Archie Mark, 79, passed away Saturday, October 21, in the home of her daughter, Mrs. Andrew Seeger, after a long illness.

Funeral services were held at 2:00 pm Monday in the home of another daughter, Mrs. Fred Buehrly. Rev. R.N. Holsaple, pastor of the Evangelical Church, officiated and burial was in Elkland Cemetery.

Emeline Striffler was born September 5, 1860, on a farm one mile east and one mile north of Cass City, and has lived in this vicinity all of her life.

On December 23, 1886, she was united in marriage with Archie Mark. He died in 1934 and for about a year after his death Mrs, Mark continued to make her home on 3rd Street, her sister, Miss Martha Striffler, living with her. Because of ill health, she has made her home with her daughters, Mrs. Buehrly, Mrs. Ben Schwegler and Mrs. Seeger.

She is survived by a son, Edward Mark, of Cass City; four daughters, Mrs. Buehrly, Mrs. Schwegler, and Mrs. Seeger, all of Cass City, and Mrs. Owen Darling, of Brown City; two brothers, G.A. Striffler of Cass City and David Striffler, of Columbus, Georgia; and two sisters, Miss Martha Striffler of Cass City and Mrs. W.R. Kaiser of Detroit.

She also leaves 23 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Six grandchildren acted as pallbearers. They were Mark and James Darling of Brown City, Keith Buehrly, Archie and Leitch Mark, and Leonard Urquhart.

Those from out-of-town who attended the funeral were David Striffler of Columbus, Georgia, Mr. and Mrs. W.R. Kaiser, Mrs. Bernice Kleinschmidty of Detroit; Mr. and Mrs. Owen Darling and sons, Mark and James, of Brown City; Mrs. Jane Leitch, Mr. and Mrs. John Simkins and daughter, Maggie, of Pontiac; N. Karr of Kingston; and Mrs. Leon Ormes of St. Johns.

(Transcribed by Melinda McLemore Strong, Summer 2007)

Notes:

Cass City Enterprise
Vol. XX, No. 41
May 30, 1901

EXPLOSION

Boiler Bursts-Angus Leitch Killed-Four Others Injured
The Cass City Brick and Tile Company's Yards the Scene of the Sad Disaster

At a few minutes past seven o'clock on Monday morning, the boiler exploded at the yards of the Cass City Brick and Tile Company, a little over a mile south of town, causing the death of Angus Leitch, who was acting as engineer at the time, and injuring four others. The report of the explosion was heard fully five miles away, and the concussion caused the windows to rattle in the houses about town. It was but a few minutes before a large number of men were on the spot and it was found that Angus Leitch was killed outright, while Perry Withey, Geo. Warner, Jas. Comstock and Hiram Baxter had received slight injuries and other employees had had very narrow escapes. The Cass City Brick and Tile Company was organized a little over two years ago and have done a thriving business. The boiler was purchased from a gentleman in Novesta, who was using it in a saw-mill and the company had to wait for him to saw out of his yard before it could be delivered. It was carefully inspected and re fitted where necessary and considered to be in good condition. During the former season Ed. Brotherton had charge of it, but owing to his connection with the Cass City Foundry and Machine Company, and being engaged this year as a manager, it was necessary to get someone else. Leitch was employed, but Mr. Brotherton started the machinery at the commencement of the season's run, testing the boiler with 110 pounds pressure, and instructing Leitch that sixty pounds was sufficient to do the work required. Mr. Leitch had had several years' experience about engines before coming from Ontario here and was considered thoroughly competent. No watchman has been employed by the company and we learn that the boys or young men have visited the place on Sundays and tampered with the gauges and stopcocks, and on Monday morning the steam throttle was found open. The fire was started and the steam gauge indicated forty pounds pressure. The engine was started at a slow speed, but steam began to blow off. It is stated that Leitch realized that something was wrong and appears to think it was about the safety valve, while in all probability it was the steam gauge, as there must have been more pressure than indicated, possibly as high as two hundred pounds. The opinions of engineers are different as to the probable cause of the explosion. Some claim that the water must have been low enough to allow the accumulation of gas in the upper part of the boiler, in order to get the force to throw the parts as far as it did, while others claim that a greater force would be obtained with a full boiler. It seems that the inspector would not work properly with less than sixty pounds of steam and some think that while the engineer was waiting for the gauge to indicate the amount, the water ran low causing the explosion. It is possible that the gauge had been tampered with on Sunday and not been noticed by the engineer. When the explosion took place, Leitch was standing between the boiler and engine, and it is not known positively whether parts of the boiler struck him or the force through him against a post near by. The injuries received were all about the face and head, rendering him unconscious instantly and causing his death a few moments later. Perry Withey was scalded slightly about the face and received a scalp wound but was able to resume work shortly after. Warner, Comstock and Baxter received slight bruises about the arms, shoulders and back?George Meiser had just picked up his wheel-barrow to start away from the engine when the accident occurred and the barrow was taken from him and smashed into kindling, while he escaped unhurt. Claude Bentley had just driven into the clay pit and does not know whether he jumped from the cart or was thrown from it but he was not hurt. The dome of the boiler was carried probably forty feet or more in height and fell about thirty rods away to the westward, while the head of the boiler was carried more than half as far?

Angus Leitch, the deceased, was forty-two years of age, and came here from near Dutton, Ont., some twelve years previously. He purchased and operated a farm in Novesta towship, which he still owned, but a few years ago he leased his farm and moved to the M. Sheridan farm, just west of town, now owned by C.H. Topping. Upon the farm being sold to Mr. Topping, Mr. Leitch moved to town, occupying the residence at the corner of Leach and Sanilac Street, owned by M. Sheridan. He leaves a wife and three children to mourn his sudden departure. The funeral services were held in the Presbyterian Church, on Wednesday afternoon, conducted by the pastor, Rev. A. Torbet. The father, three brothers and three sisters of the deceased, and the mother and two brothers of Mrs. Leitch, came from the vicinity of Dutton and Rodney, Ont., to attend the funeral. Mrs. John Campbell, of this place, is also a sister of the deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Dan Gillies, of Port Huron, and Mr. and Mrs. Archie Gilles, of Millington, were among other relatives present. Deceased was a member of Elkland Arbor, A.O.O.G., and about sixty members of that order attended the funeral. The remains were laid to rest in the Elkland cemetery. The entire community is stirred with sympathy for the bereaved.

(Transcribed by Melinda McLemore Strong, April 2010)


The May 31, 1901 issue of the Cass City Chronicle had a follow article on the incident. It also listed his father as Archibald Leitch, brothers as Alexander, Duncan and Archibald, sisters as Mrs. Angus McArthur, Mrs. James Welsh, and Mrs. Alonzo Wisner.


(Research):

Census Listings:

1900 Census
Michigan, Tuscola County, Elkland Twp
Enumerated 19 and 20 June 1900
SD 8 ED 110 Sheet 9B
188-189
Leatch, Angus Hd W M Feb 1856 44 M13 Canada Eng Canada Eng Canada Eng 1889 11 Al Farm Labor
Leatch, Jane A Wf W F Marc 1864 36 M 13 4/3 Canada Eng Scottana Scottana 1889 11
Leatch, Mary Jane Dtr W F Apr 1889 11 Mich Canada Canada At School
Leatch, Grace A Dtr W F July 1896 3 S Michigan Canada Canada

Angus married Jane McVannell on 12 May 1887 in Dunwich, Ontario, Canada. Jane (daughter of Archibald McVannel and Mary McMillan) was born on 14 Mar 1864 in Dutton, Ontario, Canada; died on 20 Sep 1947 in Pontiac, Oakland County, Michigan; was buried on 23 Sep 1947 in Elkland Township Cemetery, Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Cass City Chronicle
Cass City, Michigan, Friday, September 26, 1947
Volume 42, Number 23, Page Four

Funeral of Mrs. Jane Leitch Here Monday?b?
?/b?
Mrs. Jane Leitch, for 27 years a resident of Cass City previous to moving from here to Pontiac in 1916, passed away at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Lester Carpenter, in Pontiac Saturday morning. She had been in ill health for some time. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. Melvin R. Vender at the Edward Mark home on East Houghton Street in Cass City Tuesday afternoon. Burial was in Elkland Cemetery.

Jane McVannell, daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Archibald McVannell, was born in Dutton, Ont., March 14,1864.

She was united in marriage with Angus Leitch May 12, 1887, in Dunwich, Ontario. They moved to Cass City in March of 1889. Mr. Leitch preceded her in death in May of 1901. In 1916 she moved to Pontiac to make her home with her daughter, Mrs. Carpenter, where she has lived until her death. She was a member of the United Presbyterian Church of Pontiac.

Surviving are three daughters, Mrs. Edward Mark of Cass City, Mrs. John Simkins and Mrs. Lester Carpenter of Pontiac; eighteen grandchildren; eighteen great grandchildren; and one brother, Peter McVannell, of Manitoba,Canada. A son, Archibald J., died in infancy.

(Copied by Melinda McLemore Strong, April 2010)

Notes:

The "Holtby Family Tree" online (http://www.oldebill.ca/HFT/hftg417.htm) shows Walter Roach Mark as a son of John Mark and Joanne Warren, and grandson of William Mark and Joan Roach.

The following obituary was also found elsewhere online, date and place of publication not cited.

DIED AT VEGREVILLE, ALTA

Walter R. Marks Answered Final Summons Mar. 4

Walter R. Mark died at Vegreville, Alberta, March 4, 1911. He was born in England in October, 1837. Moved to Ontario with his parents while still a small boy. In 1850 he married Miss Elizabeth McLean of Ontario. To this union were born eight children, five sons and three daughters, all of whom are living.
He moved to Michigan in 1877, with his wife and children, living on a farm two miles north of Cass City. Mr. Mark also worked in the village for John Bader and David Spittler at the blacksmith trade.
Mrs. Mark died in 1887 and in 1888 Mr. Mark was united to Mrs. Mary Jane Karr, who died October 11, 1910.
Eleven years ago he went to Alberta with two sons-in- law, their wives and families, making his home there until his death. He leaves to mourn his death three daughters, Mrs. John Wright and Mrs. Wm. Muntz of Vegreville, Alberta, and Mrs. N. Karr of Kingston, and five sons, Archie, Walter, and John of this vicinity, Robert of Logvalley, Sask. and Thos. of Seattle, Wash. Also is grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
The remains were brought to Cass City yesterday and the funeral service will be held at the home of Archie Marks this (Friday) afternoon at two o'clock.

(Research):Census Information:

1880 Federal Census

Household:
Name Relation Marital Status Gender Race Age Birthplace Occupation Father's Birthplace Mother's Birthplace
Walter MARK Self M Male W 40 ENG. Blacksmith ENG. ENG.
Elisabeth MARK Wife M Female W 35 CAN. Keeping House IRE. IRE.
Archibald MARK Son S Male W 18 CAN. Farmer ENG. IRE.
Jane MARK Dau S Female W 14 CAN. Without Occupation ENG. IRE.
Johanna MARK Dau S Female W 12 CAN. At Home ENG. IRE.
Walter MARK Son S Male W 10 CAN. At Home ENG. IRE.
Robert MARK Son S Male W 8 CAN. At Home ENG. IRE.
Thomas MARK Son S Male W 6 CAN. At Home ENG. IRE.
Maud MARK Dau S Female W 4 CAN. At Home ENG. IRE.
John MARK Son S Male W 3 CAN. At Home ENG. IRE.

Source Information:
Census Place Elkland, Tuscola, Michigan
Family History Library Film 1254607 NA Film Number T9-0607
Page Number 92C

Walter married Elizabeth McLean before 1862. Elizabeth was born between 1837 and 1845 in Canada; died about 1887 in Ontario, Canada; was buried in Elkland Township Cemetery, Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Art Peck writes that they were among the first families in Tuscola County, Michigan, moving there about 1860 on land purchased for $2 an acre, land they had never seen. They cleared the land to establish a farm, a mile east and a mile north of Cass City. John was Elkland County, Michigan treasurer from 1868 to 1870, and again from 1885 through 1887.

Cass City Chronicle
Cass City, Mich., Friday, July 14, 1922
Vol. 18, No. 9

John Striffler has Passed Away
Settled in Elkland Township 62 Years Ago; Prominent in the Early History of Cass City Community

On the tombstone we carve the name of our beloved dead and then two dates--the year of birth and the year of death. Between these two lies the history of the dead and yet so few know that history. Between Mar. 15, 1833 and July 12, 1922, lies the life history of John Striffler. He was born on a farm near Lancaster, N.Y. and passed on to his home eternal at Cass City, Michigan.

A few months after his marriage to Miss Mary Benkelman at Lancaster on Nov. 14, 1858, Mr. Striffler came to Tuscola county. They resided six months at Watrousville and then completed their journey overland through the timber to Elkland township where they hewed out a home in the woods, and finally saw beautiful farms take the place of the timber tracts. Mrs. Striffler passed away on May 4, 1913. Two children also preceded the father in death, one child at the age of four years, and Mrs. Salome Bien, a daughter, whose death occured but a few months ago.

Coming into the community when it was sparsely settled and all covered with timber and when it took four days' travel with ox teams to go from Vassar to the cite where Cass City now stands, Mr. Striffler had ample opportunity to test the hardships of early pioneer life in the Thumb district. His services in the early days proved valuable and his neighbors soon placed him with the responsibilities of various township offices.

John Striffler was a man of generous impluse and never forgot the hospitable ways of the pioneer. Friend or stranger never failed to find food and shelter if he sought it at his hands, and he delighted in kind and neighborly deeds. Many a poor family found relief from his storehouse and many people enjoyed his hospitality. His home was always open to all, poor or well-to-do, and many found pleasure in the entertainment provided therein. He had borne adversity bravely and enjoyed prosperity quietly. He had filled the various relations of life as husband, father, brother, friend and filled them satifactorily and his life work was well done.

He is survived by five children, Mrs. Archie MARK, G.A. STRIFFLER, Mrs. W.R. KAISER, and Miss Martha STRIFFLER, all of Cass City, and David STRIFFLER of Columbus, Georgia, 12 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren. Since the death of his wife, his daughter, Martha, has been the companion and faithful attendant of her father.

Funeral services will be held in the Evangelical church which Mr. Striffler attended for many years. It is planned to hold the service Saturday afternoon unless David Striffler, who is on his way home from Georgia, is delayed in his journey from the south.

(Transcribed by Melinda McLemore Strong, Spring 2007)

(Research):
Census Information:

1850 Census
New York, Erie County, Lancaster
Enumerated 23 Aug 1850
Page 200
1048-1082
Otil Strifler 59 F $2550 Germany
Jacob Strifler 30 M Farmer
Susanna Strifler 27 F
Joseph Stifler 24 M Farmer
Christian Strifler 22 m Farmer
John Strifler 17 Farmer New York (sic)
David Strifler 14


1860 Census
Michigan, Tuscola County, Elkland
58-56
John Striffler 27 Farmer $280 $75 NY
Mary Striffler 21 Domestic Wirtinburg, Germany
The household immediately following theirs was that of Jacob and Louisa Striffler

1870 Census
Michigan, Tuscola County
56-56
Striffler, John 37 Farmer $5,075 $860 NY
Striffler, Mary 31 Germ Wirtinburg
Striffler, Emeline 10 Mich
Striffler, Albert 6 Mich
Striffler, Salome 4 Mich
The households preceding theirs were occupied by Jacob and Louis Striffler (#53), Adam and Catherine Benkelmann (#54), George & Katherine Kolb (#55).

1880 Census
Census Place:Elkland, Tuscola, Michigan
Source:FHL Film 1254607 National Archives Film T9-0607
Page 95B Relation Sex Marr Race Age Birthplace
John STRIFFLER Self M M W 47 NY Occ: Farmer Fa: FRANCE Mo: FRANCE
Mary STRIFFLER Wife F M W 41 WERTENBURG Occ: Keeping House Fa: WERTENBURG Mo: WERTENBURG
Emmiline STRIFFLER Dau F S W 19 MI Occ: Without Occupation Fa: NY Mo: WERTENBURG
George A. STRIFFLER Son M S W 16 MI Occ: At School Fa: NY Mo: WERTENBURG
Salome STRIFFLER Dau F S W 13 MI Occ: At School Fa: NY Mo: WERTENBURG
Martha STRIFFLER Dau F S W 7 MI Occ: At School Fa: NY Mo: WERTENBURG
Esther STRIFFLER Dau F S W 2 MI Occ: At Home Fa: NY Mo: WERTENBURG
Leonard BUEHRLY Other M S W 21 WERTENBURG Occ:Farmer Fa: WERTENBURG Mo: WERTENBURG
Philipp STRIFFLER Nephew M S W19 NY Occ: Farmer Fa: NY Mo: NY

19 year old Philip Striffler is likely the son of David and Sophia Striffler of Lancaster, New York. David was said to have died in 1872, and it appears that at least his oldest son left New York after his father died, so perhaps Philip did as well. Leonard Buehrly was from same village in Germany as Mary, and would later marry the granddaughter of her brother, Frederick Benkelman.

1900 Census, Michigan, Tuscola, Elkland, ED 110
Enumerated the 12th of June, 1900 by John Marshall
SD 8, ED 110, Sheet 6 B
125-125
Archie and Emeline Mark and family
126 126
Striffler, John Hd W M March 1833 67 M 41 NY France France Farmer
Striffler, Mary Wife W F May 1839 61 M 41 7/6 Germany Germany Germany 1856
Striffler, Martha Dtr W F Nov 1871 28 S Michigan NY Germany
Striffler, Ester Dtr W F May 1878 22 S Michigan NY Germany
Striffler, David A. W M Aug 1883 16 S Michigan NY Germany Farm Laborer
Bean, Saloma Dtr W F Sep 1866 22 Ed 3/3 Michigan NY Germany
Bean, Stanley G.Son W M Dec 1892 7 S Michigan Michigan Germany
Bean, Paul P. G. Son W M May 1894 6 S Michigan Michigan Germany
Bean, William D. G. Son W M Dec 1895 4 S Michigan Michigan Germany

1910 Census, Michigan, Tuscola County, Elkland Twp, ED 113, Cass City Village
Enumerated 13 Apr 1910
SD 8, ED 113, Sheet No 5 B

138-138
Striffler, John Hd M W 76 M1 NY Germany Germany
Own Income
Striffler, Mary Wife 70 M1 6/6 Germany Germany Germany
Striffler, Martha Dtr F W 37 S Mich Germany Germany

They were living in the household immediately preceding that of Mary's nephew, Benjamin Benkelman, Sr.

John married Anna Maria "Mary" Benkelman on 14 Nov 1858 in Lancaster, Erie County, New York. Anna (daughter of Johann Leonhard Benkelmann and Maria Dorothea St?hle) was born on 22 May 1839 in Schneiderhof, Waldhausen Parish, Welzheim, Jagstkreis, W?rttemberg, Germany; died on 4 May 1913 in Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan; was buried in Elkland Township Cemetery, Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

German Parish records show "ist 1853 ausgewandert" (left for America) in 1853. On the Oberant Welzheim Emmigrants list, 1818-1891, She is listed as Anna Maria, g. d. 22t. Mai 1839 ledig, and travelling in a party headed by her mother, Maria Dorothea, the widow of Johann Leonhard Benkelmann, a farmer of Schneiderhof. Three of her sisters were on this list as well.

BonnieMargaret's full source citation was: Staatsarchiv Ludwigsburg, "Verzeichnis der Auswanderung aus dem Oberamt Welzheim 1818-1891" F 214 B?schel 91 Fortlaufende Number 42 [or possibly 47] ).

Cass City Chronicle
Cass City, Mich., Friday, May 9, 1913
Vol. 8, No. 3

Elkland Twp. Loses Pioneer Settler
Mrs. John Striffler passed away Sunday Evening
Has Been a Resident of This Township for 54 years; was 73 Years of Age

Following an illness of several months duration, Mrs. John Striffler, one of the pioneer settlers of Elkland Township, died at her home on Pine Street Sunday evening at the age of 73 years.

Mary Benkelman was born in Brech, Wuertemberg, Germany*, on May 22, 1839, and came to this country in 1852, landing at Baltimore. She with some of her brothers and sisters settled in Lancaster, N.Y., and here on Nov. 14, 1858, she was united in marriage with John Striffler. This union was blessed with seven children, six of whom survive.

[BonnieMargaret Jacob's writes that Breech was just down and across the road from the Schneiderhof, both near B?rtlingen]

It was 54 years ago this month, when they, in the prime of life, came to Michigan, locating on the land now known as Striffler homestead, two miles east and north of Cass City. They belonged to that distinguished number of early settlers who opened up this section of Tuscola county and laid the foundation for future prosperity for those who came into these parts later on and here was established a home where the generous impluses and the hospitable ways of the pioneer held sway. When the life on the farm grew to sternouse (sic) for their advanced years, Mr. and Mrs. Striffler moved to Cass City to spend their remaining years.

Mrs. Striffler became a Christian in early life and ever since the establishment of the Evangelical society in this section, has been a regular attendant of that church. Her life was of such a self-sacrificing nature that she became a blessing to all who came to know her and in return God gave her a peaceful life full of hope and joy. Her last sickness was born with patience. She will be missed by the many friends and especially in the home by the husband and daughter.

The funeral services were held at the Evangelical church on Thursday morning. Rev. D.J. Feather, the pastor, officiated, assisted by Revs. J.M. Bittner and J. Schmaus, and the remains were carried to their last resting place in Elkland cemetery by the following nephews of the deceased, who served as pall bearers: B.F. and J.A. BENKELMAN, G. E. and John KRAPF, Solomon and Samuel STRIFFLER.

Besides the husband, six children, Mrs. Archie MARKS, G. A. STRIFFLER, Mrs. Salome BIEN, Miss Martha STRIFFLER, Mrs. W.R. KAISER and David STRIFFLER, one sister, Mrs. M.M. SCHWEGLER of this city, two brothers, Leonard BENKELMAN of Manitowoc, Wis. and John BENKELMAN of Portage, Wis., 11 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren survive.

Cass City Chronicle
Friday, May 16, 1913
Local Items, Page 4

Mrs. Mary BURK, Mrs. Sarah HOYT and daughter, Miss Iva, of Caro attended the funeral of Mrs. John STRIFFLER Thursday

(Transcribed by Melinda McLemore Strong, Summer 2007)

A copy of her actual Michigan Death certificate can be viewed online:

http://seekingmichigan.org/

Indexed as Marry Striffler

Her date of birth on this certificate was instead shown as 22 May 1839, and her parents were listed as Lenard Benkelman and Dora Slatey[St?hle]. The informant was W?/D? A Striffler of Cass City.







(Medical):See attached sources.

Notes:

Married:
BonnieMargaret Jacobs also shows a daughter, Martha, born Nov. 1873???

Notes:

Cass City Chronicle
Cass City, Michigan, Friday, Nov. 2, 1906
Vol. 1, No. 23, Page 1

Archibald McVannel died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Jane Leitch, on Garfield avenue last Thursday, October 25, after an illness of two years. His home is in West Lorne, Ont., and two years ago her and his wife came to visit their daughter, when he was stricken with the illness from which he never recovered sufficiently to return home. His sufferings have been intense all the time.

He was born in Scotland, June 18, 1815, and in the year 1848 took up his residence near Dutton, Ont., having been married in 1843 (sic) to Miss Mary McMillan, who survives him. Six children are living, three sons, Duncan, Daniel and Peter, all three of this place; and three daughters, Mrs. Jane Leitch, of this place; Mrs. T. H. Sloan, of Wascada, Manitoba; and Mrs. John Templeton, of West Lorne, Ont,; the last two mentioned being unable to attend the funeral. He also has one sister, Mrs. Hyndman residing near Dutton, Ont.

The funeral took place at the residence Saturday afternoon, Rev. E. H. Bradfield officiating and the burial was made in Elkland Cemetery. Deceased was a member of the Canada Presbyterian church and an earnest Christian man.

The relatives from out of town who attended were Mr. and Mrs. S. McGeachy of Imlay City; John Templeton and D. McMillan of West Lorne, Ont.

(Transcribed by Melinda McLemore Strong, April 2010)

Archibald married Mary McMillan about 1863 in Ontario, Canada. Mary was born about 1843 in Argyll, Scotland; died on 22 May 1907 in Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Cass City Chronicle
Cass City, Michigan, Friday, May 24, 1907
Vol. 2, No. 5, Page 1

Third Death in the Family

Father, son and mother pass away within eight months

Mrs. Mary McVannel, who has been seriously ill with typhoid fever, the past three weeks at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Jane Leitch, died Wednesday afternoon.

For the third time in a little more than six months, the home of Mrs. Leitch has been visited by the death angel; the first to be taken away was her aged father, Archie McVannell, who died October 25, 1906, after a protracted illness. The next was her brother, Daniel McVannell, who died April 19, from typhoid fever, having contracted the disease while working in Port Huron. The mother was taken sick about a week after his death, and on Wednesday passed away. The home is indeed grief stricken and saddened one by the losses it has sustained through these deaths.

Mrs. McVannel was a woman of beautiful character and a member of the Presbyterian church. Although she has not resided in our midst very long, and sickness in her family has necessarily kept her at her home, yet a number have learned to know her and found in her the personification of a righteous life.

Mary McMillan was born in Scotland, sixty-four years ago, in Argyleshire. Three years later with her parents she emigrated to Canada, settling near West Lorne, Ontario, where she grew to womanhood. She was united in marriage in 1863 to Archie McVannel and they resided in Ontario until about two years ago, when they came to Cass City to visit their daughter, Mrs. Leitch, Mr. McVannel being in poor health at the time.

He was taken worse soon after his arrival here and was never able to return home. Mr. McVannel returned to Ontario after the death of her husband, and when her son Daniel, was taken ill, she came back here to assist in caring for him, and contracted the disease from which she never recovered. She leaves a family of five grown children, two sons, Peter and Duncan, both of this place, and three daughters, Mrs. John Templeton of West Lorne, Ont., Mrs. Sloan of Northwest Canada, and Mrs. Jane Leitch of this place. Four brothers, Dougald, Duncan and Daniel, of Rodney, Ont., and John McMillan of Northwest Canada, and four sisters Mrs. John McCallum of Novesta township, Mrs. Graham of Highgate, Ont., and Mrs. Patterson and Mrs. Gilles of near Rodney, Ont. also survive her.

The funeral services will be held at the residence this (Friday) afternoon at two o'clock. Rev. E. H. Bradfield officiating. It is expected that a number of relatives from Ontario will be in attendance.

The heartfelt sympathy of the entire community is extended to the grief stricken family.

(Transcribed by Melinda McLemore Strong, April 2010)