Michael Rommel

Notes:

BonnieMargeret Jacobs, on page 21 of her unpublished 1981 manuscript about the Benkelman Family, said that the name "Rommel" was a pet form of names beginning with RUHM ("fame"), or alternatively blustering or noisy, or messy or untidy.

The Wuerrtemberg, Germany Emigration Index shows that a Johann Michael Rommel, from the district of Ludwigsburg, was born 1 Oct 1804 in Beihingen, applied to emigrate to New York in Oct 1853 (#837989). Unless the date of birh and location of birth are slightly off, this is not our Michael Rommel.

The Michigan Death index shows he was born ca 1804 in Germany, and died on 9 Feb 1888 in St. Joseph, Michigan. He was widowed at the time of his death. The Sattler Family Tree on Ancestry.com shows Michael as a son of Johannes Rommel and Anna Maria Vester.

Michael married Maria Barbara Frey on 30 Jan 1827 in B?nzwangen, Donaukreis, W?rttemberg, Germany. Maria was born on 4 Dec 1804 in Faurndau, Donaukreis, W?rttemberg, Germany; died on 27 Feb 1873. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Christina married Johann Georg "George" Benkelman about 1861 in Lancaster, Erie County, New York. Johann (son of Johann Leonhard Benkelmann and Maria Dorothea St?hle) was born on 25 Jun 1830 in Schneiderhof, Waldhausen Parish, Welzheim, Jagstkreis, W?rttemberg, Germany; died on 16 Jan 1908 in Denver, Denver County, Colorado; was buried in Fairmount Cemetery, Denver, Denver County, Colorado. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

On the US Civil War Draft Registrations Records, 1863-1865, St. Joseph and Van Buren Counties, Michigan, enumerated June 1863, Adam Rommel, age 28, Single, born in Germany, and working as a grocer, was listed as registering for the draft in Sturgis, Michigan.

Notes:

Cass City Chronicle
Cass City, Mich., Friday, November 3, 1911
Vol. 6, No. 29

Pioneer Lady Answers Summons
Mrs. Christian Striffler Died Tuesday, Oct. 31
Came to Elkland Township in 1877 and Settled on Farm Four Miles for Cass City

Another pioneer was called to rest when Mrs. Christian Striffler answered the final summons at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Edward HELWIG, three miles east of Cass City, at five o'clock Tuesay afternoon. Mrs. Striffler had been in poor health for several months, and as her illness developed into a serious nature several weeks ago, the end was not unexpected.

Mary ROMMEL was born in Germany on Dec. 9, 1837. She came to the United States with her parents while she was yet young and they located at Lancaster, N.Y.
Later she went to White Pigeon, Mich. and at that place she was united in marriage with Christian Striffler on July 3, 1856. Shortly after they returned to Lancaster and resided there about seven years when they came to Michigan, locating near Sturgis. In 1877 they came to Cass City where Mr. Stiffler's brother resided and soon after purchased the farm four miles northeast of town on which they lived until Mr. Striffler's death Feb. 6, 1911.

Mrs. Striffler was a loyal and consistant Christian lady and a member of the Evangelical church. She was ever of a kind indulgent disposition and none ever entered her home without a warm welcome nor left without feeling the warmth of genuine hospitality.

Her home was blessed by eight children, two of whom, Christian and Mrs. S.G. Benkelman, preceding the mother in death. The remaining children are: Samuel W. of Argyle; William D., Mrs. Clara (sic) PATTERSON, Mrs. H.L. McDERMOTT, Mrs. Edward HELWIG and Solomon C., all of whom reside in this vicinity. She is also survived by her two brothers, Andrew and George RUMMEL, of Sturgis, one sister, Mrs. Geo. BENKELMAN of St. Francis, Kansas, 18 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild. The funeral services will be held at the residence of Edward HELWIG at 12 o'clock today (Friday) and later int he afternoon at the Evangelical Church.

Her tombstone inscription reads:

Striffler, Mary,b. 9 Dec 1937, d. 31 Oct 1911, mother

Her actual Michigan Death Certificate can be viewed online here:

http://seekingmichigan.org/

Indexed as Mary Anna Striffler

(Medical):See attached sources.

Anna married Christian Striffler on 3 Jul 1856 in White Pigeon, St. Joseph County, Michigan. Christian (son of Jacob Anton Striffler and Ottila "Odila" "Otil" Zimmerman) was born on 8 Dec 1827 in Kirberg, Imperial Territory of Alsace-Lorraine, Imperial Territory Of Alsace-Lorraine, Elsa?-Lothringen, Germany; died on 6 Feb 1911 in Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan; was buried in Elkland Township Cemetery, Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

The 1911 obituary of his sister, Anna Maria Rommel Striffler, listed him as "George Rummel of Sturgis."

(Research):Census Information:

1900 Census
Michigan, St. Joseph County, Sturgis
Enumerated 5 June 1900
SD 4 ED 127 Sheet 4A Stamped 233
87-89
Rommel, George Hd W M June 1841 57 m 32 Germany Germany Ger
many 1873 Day Laborer
Rommel, Mary Wf W F May 1843 M1 32 8/3 Germany Germany Germany 1847
Rommel, Andrew Son W M Nov 1882 17 S Mich Germany Germany Laborer Fcty
Rommel, Margaret Mother W F Mar 1821 79 Wd 1/1 Germany Germany Germany



1910 Census
Michigan, St. Joseph County, Sturgis
Enumerated 21 April 1910
SD 4, ED 139 Ward 3rd Sheet 4B
410-98-103
Rummell, George Hd M W 69 m1 41 Germany Germany Germany Laborer Factory
Rummell, Mary Wife F W 66 m1 41 3/3 Germany Germany Germany

Johann married Anna Maria Hummel on 19 Oct 1868 in B?nzwangen, Donaukreis, W?rttemberg, Germany. Anna was born on 25 May 1843 in W?rttemberg, Germany; and died. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

He was shown on the Wuerttemberg, Germany Emigration index as from the district of Goeppingen, born 28 May 1846 in Buenzwagen, and applying to emigrate on July 1866 to North America, Number 598680.

The 1911 obituary of his sister, Anna Maria Rommel Striffler, listed him as "Andrew Rummel of Sturgis." He was shown on the Michigan Death Index as Andrew Rommell, and his occupation was listed as Retired Merchant, Widowed, and Female (sic)

(Research):Census Information:

1910 Census
Michigan, St. Joseph County, Sturgis Ward 1
Enumerated 21 April 1910
SD 4 ED 137 Sheet 8B
115-176-194
Rommel, Andrew Sr Hd WM W 63 m1 43 Germany Germany German
y English Own Income
Rommel, Lena Wf F W 65 M1 43 4/4 France/German France/German France/German
Rommel, Andrew Jr Son M W 36 M1 15 Mic Germany France/German Laboer ??? Factory
Rommel, Edith Dtr-in-law F W 30 M 15 1/1 Mich Germany France/Germany
Rommel, Stephen Grandson M W 12 S Mich Mich Mich
Rommel, Louise Dtr F W 26 AS Mich Germany France/German

Maria married George Adam "Little George" Benkelman on 6 Jan 1880 in Denver, Denver County, Colorado. George (son of Johann Adam Benkelman and Anna Catharina Schaufele) was born on 7 Sep 1851 in Lancaster, Erie County, New York; died on 10 Feb 1929 in Alhambra, Los Angeles County, California; was buried in St. Francis Cemetery, Cheyenne County, Kansas. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Known as "Denver George." He founded the Finance Service Corporation and the Merchants Biscuit Company. He served as secretary to the Colorado Packing and Provision Company. His father had founded the company, but the younger George managed it until its merger in 1913 with the National Packing Company.

He tore down the Benkelman residence and built the Benkelman Block at 18th and California. There was housed the Finance Service Corporation.

BonnieMargaret transcribed his obituary from the Rocky Mountain News as follows:

"George W. Benkelman, founder and vice president of the Merchants' Biscuit company and the last of a long line of pioneer settlers in the West, fell dead early last evening at the Denver Athletic Club following an acute heart attack. Mr. Benkelman at the time was chatting with friends at the club and until he suddenly dropped forward in his chair, he gave no indication of the sudden seizure of heart disease which caused his almost instant death. Having for many years been closely identified with mining, manufacturing and cattle interests, Mr. Benkelman occupied a prominent position in the financial and industrial life of the city and state." (Jacobs, p. 122 and 123).

BonnieMargaret also wrote, in a separate paper about the Kansas Benkelmans, that one of his honorary pallbearers was William Buck, a Cheyenne County Rancher, who was located 4 miles north of St. Francis.

George was unmarried and had no heirs. An item in his will left property in Trust with The Denver National Bank. The will provided that at the end of five years, the bank, as trustee, would convey title to the property to a corporation and one-tenth of the capital stock should be given to Mrs. Mary M. (Lena Benkelman) Schwegler or her heirs.

Lena died childless, and before the expiration of the trust. Her heirs were the descendants of her brothers and sisters, as they also had predeceased her. This Decree, dated September 2, 1931 by the District Court of Denver, Colorado, is an important genealogical document. The Bank had to locate and identify 60 widely scattered Benkelman heirs to share in this inheritance. BonnieMargaret references this as Court docket No. 111060, filed on June 12, 1931 in the District Couty, State of Colorado, City and County of Denver.

Bonnie notes that the Denver branch of the Benkelman family were all originally buried at the Riverside Cemetery in Denver, but reinterred to the Fairmount Cemetery on October 14, 1920 by George W.

(Research):
Census Listings:

1910 Census
Colorado, Denver County, Denver Ward 9
Enumerated 21 Apr 1910
Twenty First Street
523-91-146
Benkelman, George W Head M W 47 S Co Germany/German Germany/German Office Beef and Pork Packer
Benkelman, Charlie A Brother M W 44 m1 1 Colorado Germany/German Germany/German President Oil and Gas co
Benkelman, Florence E Sister in Law F W 35 m1 1 England/English England/English England/English 1891 None
Benkelman, Harry J Brother M W 42 S Colorado Germany/German Germany/German Own Income

1920 Census
Colorado, Denver County, Denver City
Enumerated 3 Jan 1920
SD 1 ED 262 Sheet 2B
1080-40-41
Dronn (or Drown), Linnaeus Head M W 46 m Oh Pa Oh Surgeon General Practice
Dronn(or Drown), Cora M Wf F W 45 m Oh Pa Oh
Benkelman, George W Lodger M W 57 S Co Germany/English Germany/English Mining Mine

Notes:

Cass City Chronicle
Friday, May 5, 1916
Page Five

Mr. and Mrs. Charles Benkelman of Denver, Colorado, are guests of their aunt, Mrs. M. M. Schwegler, while they are visiting a host of relatives in this vicinity.

In her 1981 manuscript, BonnieMargaret writes that "son Charles was never in good health and limited his interests to the family mining properties though he held several sales positions in Denver. At one point it seems that J. G. founded a business, the Columbian Engraving Co., hoping it would give Charles' business activities some direction, but it lasted only a few years." (Jacobs, p. 121).


(Research):


Census Listings:

1910 Census
Colorado, Denver County, Denver Ward 9
Enumerated 21 Apr 1910
Twenty First Street
523-91-146
Benkelman, George W Head M W 47 S Co Germany/German Germany/German Office Beef and Pork Packer
Benkelman, Charlie A Brother M W 44 m1 1 Colorado Germany/German Germany/German President Oil and Gas co
Benkelman, Florence E Sister in Law F W 35 m1 1 England/English England/English England/English 1891 None
Benkelman, Harry J Brother M W 42 S Colorado Germany/German Germany/German Own Income

Charles married Florence Elliott about 1909 in Denver, Denver County, Colorado. Florence was born on 5 Apr 1875 in England, United Kingdom; died on 15 Mar 1917 in Denver, Denver County, Colorado; was buried in Fairmount Cemetery, Denver, Denver County, Colorado. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

He was an officer in State National Bank. He and his brother George lived in their family home at 523 Twenty-First Street in Denver, along with brother Charles and his wife. (Art Peck).

BonnieMargaret, in her 1981 manuscript, wrote that "Harry began his work experience as a deputy city clerk, was eventually absorbed within the Colorado Packing and Provision Company as a clerk and ultimately became a branch manager of this family enterprise. Harry's obituary described him as "generous and liberal, perhaps to a fault" and he eventually died in a Denver sanitarium, hospitalized 7 years with an alcohol problem he was not able to overcome."

Notes:

Cass City Chronicle
January 24, 1908
Local Items, page 4

Fred and Harry Striffler and a number of their young friends went to Argyle Friday evening and spent several housrs at the home of the boys' parents. The trip was made in a bob sleigh and the crowd had a happy time.

Cass City Chronicle
Friday, May 30, 1913

Ruth Striffler of Argyle was the guest of her sister, Mrs. J.A. Sandham, Friday.

Mr. and Mrs. S.W. Striffler of Argyle were callers at the home of J.A. Sandham Tuesday.


Cass City Chronicle
January 15, 1915

Mr. and Mrs. S. W. STRIFFLER and Mr. and Mrs. Angus McPHAIL of Argyle and Harry C. STRIFFLER of Ann Arbor were New Years guests at the home of J.A. SANDHAM

Cass City Chronicle
January 14, 1916

Mrs. Angus McPHAIL of Argyle is visiting her sister, Mrs. J.A. Sandham

Cass City Chronicle
October 05, 1923

Mr. and Mrs. W.H. Moreton of Detroit arrived in town Thursday last week and have been visiting Samuel Striffler, Mr. and Mrs. Angus McPhail and Mr. and Mrs. J.A. Sandham until Wednesday when they returned home. Mrs. Moreton's father, Samuel Striffler, returned with them to make a short stay.

Cass City Chronicle
June 18, 1926
Local Happenings, Page 8

Chas. Rommell of Sturgis is visiting his cousin, S. W. Striffler, and other relatives.

Cass City Chronicle
Friday, March 16, 1928

Former Argyle Merchant Is Dead

Samuel W. Striffler, who had been in poor health for several years, passed away at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Angus McPhail, on Tuesday afternoon at the age of 70 years.

He was born in Lancaster, New York, on Dec. 4, 1857. In 1863, the family moved to Sturgis, Michigan, and in 1877 they came to Cass City, settling on a farm in the northeastern part of Elkland township.

On May 9, 1882, Mr. Striffler was united in marriage with Miss Pauline Ahr and they commenced their married life on Mr. Striffler's farm in Greenleaf township, three miles east and one mile north of Cass City. Here their children were born and they remained there until December, 1891, when, owing to Mrs. Stiffler's failing health, they moved to Argyle, Sanilac county, where Mr. Striffler engaged in the mercantile business. As a merchant for 28 years in Argyle, Mr. Striffler became widely acquainted, and because of his honorable dealings with his customers and his public spirit in advancing the interests of his town, he was held in high esteem in that community. He was a regular attendant of the Argyle M.E. church and a staunch supporter of that society.

In the spring of 1920, Mr. Striffler sold his mercantile business at Argyle and bought a home in Cass City. Mrs. Striffler passed away on Nov. 4, 1920, and a son, Edward H., preceded his parents in death in 1903. Since Mrs. Striffler's death, Mr. Striffler has made his home with his daughter, Mrs. Angus McPhail.

Funeral services will be held in the Evangelical church in Cass City this (Friday) afternoon at two o'clock, conducted by Rev. George Hill, assisted by Rev. C.F. Smith, and interment will be made in Elkland cemetery.

Mrs. Striffler is survived by five children, Mrs. John A. Sandham and Mrs. Angus McPhail, both of Cass City, Mrs. Wm. Moreton of Detroit, Fred Striffler of Caro and Dr. Harry C. Striffler of Pontiac; two brothers, Wm. D. Striffler and Solomon C. Striffler, both of Cass City, and three sisters, Mrs. Chas. E. Patterson and Mrs. Edward Helwig, both of Cass City, and Mrs. Andrew McDermott of Alhambra, California.

(Transcribed by Melinda McLemore Strong, 2007)

(Research):Census Information:

1900 Census
Michigan, Sanilac, Argyle
Enumerated 22 Jun 1900
SD 7, ED 113, Sheet 10A, Stamped 10
HH 182-186
William and Elizabeth Striffler & Family
HH 184-188
Striffler, Samuel W M Dec 1857 42 M 18 Ny Germany Germany Dry Goods Merchant
Striffler, Pauline F Oct 1860 39 M18 6/6 Ct Germany Germany
Striffler, Edward H W M Jun 1882 17 S Mich NY Ct
Striffler, Grace L W F May 1885 15 S Mich NY Ct
Striffler, Lillian E W F Nov 1886 13 S Mich NY Ct
Striffler, Ruth M W F Apr 1888 12 S Mich NY Ct
Striffler, Fred W M Apr 1890 10 S Mich NY Ct
Striffler, Harry W M July 1891 9 Mich NY Ct

1910 Census
Michigan, Sanilac, Argyle Twp, ED 127
Enumerated 12 May 1910 by James Aute
SD 7 ED 127 Sheet 12 B
237-238
Striffler, Samuel W Hd M W 52 M1 28 NY France-German Germany-German Retail General Store
Striffler, Pauline Wife F W 49 M1 28 6/5 Connecticut Germany-German Germany-German
Striffler, Lilian Dtr F W 23 S Mich NY Ct Telephone Operator Central Office
Striffler, Fred C Son M W 20 S Mich NY Ct Clerk Retail General Store
Striffler, Grace L Dtr F w 25 S Mich NY Ct

1920 Census
Michigan, Sanilac County, Argyle
SD 7, ED 126 Sheet 1B
20-22
Striffler, Samuel W Hd M 62 M NY France/German Germany/German
Striffler, Pauline Wf F 59 M Oh Oh Oh
Vore, Gladys Servant F 17 F Canada Scotland/English Scotland/English

Samuel married Pauline Ahr on 9 May 1882 in Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan. Pauline (daughter of Gottlieb Ahr and Johanna Friedericke Stoll) was born on 2 Oct 1860 in Bridgeport, Fairfield County, Connecticut; died on 4 Nov 1920 in Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan; was buried in Elkland Township Cemetery, Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Lydia married Samuel G. Benkelman on 17 Oct 1882 in Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan. Samuel (son of Johann Adam Benkelman and Anna Catharina Schaufele) was born on 26 Aug 1857 in Bowmansville, Town of Lancaster, Erie County, New York; died on 22 Dec 1940 in Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan; was buried on 25 Dec 1940 in Elkland Township Cemetery, Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Cass City Chronicle
Cass City, Michigan, Dec. 21, 1928
Page Five
Where they will spend Christmas

Mr. and Mrs. W.D. Striffler will have as guests on Christmas, Mr. and Mrs. R.H. ORR and children of Pigeon, Dr. and Mrs. William STURM and Miss Mary STRIFFLER of Detroit.

Cass City Chronicle
October 6, 1933
Local Happenings, Page Four

Mr. and Mrs. George Southworth and family of Elkton visited at the home of Mrs. Southworth's parents, Mr. and Mrs. W.D. Striffler.

Cass City Chronicle
Vol. 33, Number 50
Friday, March 10, 1939

Sunday visitors at the W. D. Striffler home were Mr. and Mrs. Robert H. Orr and daughter, Marjorie, of Pigeon and Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Southworth and son, Duane, of Elkton.

Cass City Chronicle
Friday, May 16, 1947
Local News

Mrs. E.B. GARDINER of Plymouth spent last Thursday and Friday with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. W.D. STRIFFLER. Her nieces, Joyce and Jessie FRY, returned home with her and came to Cass City Saturday with their aunt, Mrs. Ione STURM, of Detroit.

Cass City Chronicle
January 21, 1949
Local News, Page 4

Mrs. Wilma FRY visited her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. D. STRIFFLER, in Plymouth Sunday.

Cass City Chronicle
Friday, March 11, 1949

Elkland Pioneer Resident Died in Plymouth Saturday

Funeral of William D. Striffler Conducted here Monday by Rev. S.P. Kirn

William D. Striffler, a pioneer of the Elkland Township community, passed away early Saturday morning, March 5, at the home of his daughter, Mrs. E.B. Gardiner of Plymouth, Mich. He had been ill about a month. Had he lived until March 21 next, he would have been 88 years of age.

The body was brought to Little's Funeral Home here and at noon Monday was taken to the Evangelical United Brethern Church where it lay in state until 2:00 p.m. when funeral services were conducted by the pastor, Rev. Stanley P. Kirn. Two quartet selections were sung by Donald Borg, Maurice Joos, B.A. Elliott and Joseph Benkelman, with Mrs. Maurice Joos as piano accompanist. Burial was made in Elkland cemetery.

Six nephews of the deceased served as pallbearers. They were Delvin Striffler of Caro, Clark Helwig, Grant Patterson, and John Clark and Wallace Zinnecker.

William David Stiffler was born March 21, 1866, in Sturgis, Mich., the son of the late Christian and Mary Rommel Stiffler. He came to Cass City with his parents when a small boy.

Mr. Striffler was united in marriage in Cass City, on Dec. 6, 1892 with Miss Elizabeth Zinnecker. Following the marriage, they started housekeeping in Argyle, Michigan, where Mr. Striffler in company with his brother, Samuel, was engaged in a general merchandise business under the name of Striffler Bros. In 1900, having disposed of his interest in the Argyle store to his brother, Mr. Striffler purchased a farm in Elkland Township, a mile north and half mile east of Cass City. In 1923 the retired from farming and made Cass City their home. They went to Plymouth last fall to spend the winter months with their daughter.

Mr. and Mrs. Stiffler celebrated their golden wedding anniversary in 1942. Mr. Striffler has been a member of the Evangelical United Brethren Church in Cass City since 1909.

Mr. Striffler leaves his widow, one son, Rev. Roy J. Striffler, of New Baltimore, Michigan; five daughters, Mrs. R.H. Orr of Pigeon, Mrs. Ione Strum of Detroit, Mrs. George Southworth of Elkton, Mrs. Wilma Fry of Cass City and Mrs. Gardiner of Plymouth; one brother, S.C. Striffler of Cass City; three sisters, Mrs. C.E. Patterson and Mrs. Edward Helwig, both of Cass City, and Mrs. Barbara Griffin of Alhambra, California; thirteen grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Three sons, one brothers and one sister preceded him in death.

[Note: A list of relatives and friends who attended the funeral was printed in the paper as well, but not transcribed]

(Transcribed by Melinda McLemore Strong, Summer 2007)

(Research):
Census Information:

1900 Census
Michigan, Sanilac, Argyle
Enumerated 22 Jun 1900
SD 7, ED 113, Sheet 10A, Stamped 10
HH 182-186
Striffler, William Hd W M M7 Mar 1867 Mich Germany Germany Dry Goods Merchant
Striffler, Elizabeth Wf W F M7 4/4 Feb 1869 Germany Germany Germany
Striffler, Ethel M Dtr W F Mar 1894 Mich Mich Germany
Striffler, Daniel Son W M Oct 1895 Mich Mich Germany
Striffler, Roy J Son W M Oct 1897 Mich Mich Germany
Striffler, Ione C Dtr W F Apr 1900 Mich Mich Germany
HH 184-188
Samuel and Pauline Striffler & Family

1910 Census
Not Located

1920 Census
Michigan, Tuscola County, Elkland
Enumerated 21 January 1920
SD 7 ED 178 Sheet 6A
FM 123-126
Striffler, William D Hd M W 53 M Mich France/German WurtembergGermany/German Farmer
Striffler, Elizabeth Wife F M 50 M 1879 Na 1890 BarvariaGermany/German BavariaGermany/German
Striffler, Daniel Son M W 24 S Mich Mich BavariaGermany/German Laborer
Striffler, Florence Dtr F W 16 S Mich Mich BavariaGermany/German
Striffler, Wilma Dtr F W 14 S Mich Mich BavariaGermany/German
Striffler, Mary Dtr F W 11 S Mich Mich BavariaGermany/German
Striffler, Delmar Son M W 8 S Mich Mich BavariaGermany/German
Fm 124-127
Jaus, John and Maud
Fm 125-128
John A. and Augusta Benkelman

1930 Census
Michigan, Tuscola County, Elkland Township, Cass City Village
Enumerated April 11, 1930 by Helen Schwaderer
ED 79-4, SD 11 Sheet 4B (bottom) and 5A (top), Stamped 188
111-117
Striffler, William D Hd O $1800 M W 64 M 26 Mich Alsace/Germany Germany Salesman Implements
Striffler, Elizabeth Z Wf F W 60 M 23 Germany Germany Germany 1869 Na
Striffler, Daniel Son M W 34 S Mich Mich Germany Painter Decorating (unemployed)
Striffler, Delmar W Son M W 18 S Mich Mich Germany Printer's Devil Newspaper

William married Elizabeth Zinnecker on 6 Dec 1892 in Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan. Elizabeth (daughter of Johannes "John" Zinnecker and Elizabeth Wagner) was born on 21 Sep 1869 in Pirmasens, Rheinland-Pfalz, Germany; died on 5 Oct 1950 in Oak Beach County, Michigan; was buried in Elkland Township Cemetery, Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Cass City Chronicle
Friday, May 7, 1954
Volume 49, Number 2
Page One

Pioneer of Cass City Dies Here Friday

Mrs. Christina Patterson, one of the remaining pioneers of Cass City, died early Friday morning, April 30, at her home here. She had been ill the past eight months.

Mrs. Patterson was born in Sturgis, Michigan, May 13, 1873, the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Christian and Mary Rommel Striffler. She came to Cass City with her parents when a child.

She was united in marriage with Mrs. Charles E. Patterson November 9, 1898 in Cass City, where they made their home following their marriage.

Mrs. Patterson has been a member of the Evangelical United Brethren Church of Cass City since childhood.

She leaves to mourn their loss her husband; one daughter, Mrs. Claude (Cecile) Wood of Cass City; one son, Mr. Grant Patterson of Cass City; two sisters, Mrs. Edward Helwig of Cass City and Mrs. Barbara Griffin of Alhambra, California; one brother, Mr. S.C. Striffler of Cass City; three grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. One son, Calvin, preceded her in death.

Funeral services were held Monday, May 3, at 2:00 p.m. at the Evangelical United Brethren Church. Rev. S.R. Wurtz officiated and burial was in Elkland Cemetery.

(Transcribed by Melinda McLemore Strong, January 2008)

Christina married Charles E. Patterson on 9 Nov 1898 in Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan. Charles (son of Harlan Patterson) was born on 9 Sep 1868 in Simcoe, Ontario, Canada; died on 26 Aug 1964 in Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan; was buried on 29 Aug 1964 in Elkland Township Cemetery, Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Bruce McDermott writes that after Hector died in 1922, Barbara married second his older brother, Andrew McDermott.

Volume 23 of the STRIFFLER-BENKELMAN BROADCAST, dated September 7, 1963, noted that Steven Griset, son-in-law of Barbara Striffler McDermott had died in 1962.

Barbara married Hector L. McDermott on 28 Oct 1903 in Tuscola County, Michigan. Hector (son of Hugh Carson McDermott and Margaret McLean) was born on 18 Oct 1866 in South Bruce, Bruce, Ontario, Canada; died on 24 Feb 1922 in Santa Ana, Orange County, California. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Barbara married Andrew John McDermott on 25 Nov 1924 in Los Angeles County, California. Andrew (son of Hugh Carson McDermott and Margaret McLean) was born about 1863 in Culross Township, South Bruce, Ontario, Canada; died on 6 Nov 1931 in Alhambra, Los Angeles County, California. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Barbara married Frank Edward Griffin before 1948. Frank was born on 29 Nov 1868 in Michigan; died on 25 May 1948 in Alhambra, Los Angeles County, California. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Cass City Chronicle
Thursday, January 12, 1967
Page Four

Mrs. Mary Helwig Succumbs in Caro

Mrs. Mary Pauline Helwig, 83, died Sunday, Jan. 8, at the Tuscola County Medical Care Facility, Caro, following a lengthy illness. She was the widow of Edward Helwig.

Born Nov. 11, 1878, in Tuscola county, she was the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Christian Striffler. She and Mr. Helwig were married Sept. 26, 1906, and they made their home on a farm on Schwegler Road. The couple celebrated their golden wedding anniversary in 1956. Mr. Helwig died Aug. 24, 1959.

A lifelong resident the Cass City area, she was also a life member of the Salem Evangelical United Brethren Church.

Surviving are: one son, Clark of Cass City; one sister, Mrs. Barbara Griffin of California; one granddaughter, Mrs. Donald (Judy) Finkbeiner, and three great-grandchildren, all of Cass City.

The Rev. Ira Wood, pastor of Cass City EUB Church, officiated at the funeral services held Tuesday afternoon at Little's Funeral Home.

Burial was in Elkland cemetery.

(Transcribed by Melinda McLemore Strong, January 2008)

(Research):Census Information

1910 Census
Michigan, Tuscola, Elkland Twp
Enumerated 15 and 16 April 1910
SD 8 ED 112 Sheet 1A Stamped 121

HH 6-6
George and Catherine HELWIG
HH 10-10
George and Emilia KRAPF
HH 12-12
Helwig, Edward Hd M W 33 M1 3 NY NY NY Farmer
Helwig, Mary Wf F W 30 M1 3 0 Mich NY Germany

Mary married Edward Helwig on 26 Sep 1906. Edward (son of George Wilhelm Helwig and Catherine Warner) was born on 16 Feb 1877 in Lancaster, Erie County, New York; was christened in in Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan; died on 24 Aug 1959 in Tuscola County, Michigan; was buried on 27 Aug 1959 in Elkland Township Cemetery, Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

On his Form SS-5, application for a Social Security Account Number, Solomon Striffler listed his address as Rt. #1, Cass City, MI. His date of birth was given as Jan. 18, 1882, Tuscola County, Michigan, and he listed his age at his last birthday as 72. His father was listed as Christofer Striffler, and mother as Mary Rummel. His occupation was shown as self employed farmer. His SSN was 362-38-3574.

Cass City Chronicle
Vol. 32, Number 43
Cass City, Michigan, Friday, January 21, 1938
Page Four

In honor of Solomon C. Striffler's birthday, Mrs. Striffler entertained at dinner Tuesday night, Mr. and Mrs. W.D. Striffler, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Patterson, and Mr. and Mrs. Edward Helwig and son, Clark. W. D. Striffler is a brother of the honor guest and Mrs. Patterson and Mrs. Helwig are sisters.


Cass City Chronicle
November 24, 1966

Final Services for Solomon C. Striffler, 84, lifelong resident of the area, died Saturday, November 19, in Hills and Dales Hospital where he had been hospitalized for a month. Mr. Striffler, a retired farmer, had been in ill health for a year. Born in Cass City January 18, 1992, he was the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Christian Striffler. He and Miss Mary BUEHRLY were married in Cass City June 29, 1910, and they made their home in Elkland Township. Mrs. Striffler died December 30, 1963. Mr. Striffler was a life member of Salem EUB Church, Cass City.

Survivors included two sons: the Rev. Russell Striffler of Des Moines, Iowa, and Delvin Striffler of Caro; two sisters, Mrs. Edward HELWIG of Cass City and Mrs. Barbara GRIFFIN of Alhambra, California and four grandchildren. Little's Funeral Home had charge of arrangements and final services are to be held Wednesday afternoon at 2:00 p.m. at the EUB Church. The Rev. Ira Wood, pastor, will officiate and burial will be in Elkland cemetery.

(Research):1910 Census
Michigan, Tuscola County, Elkland Twp
Enumerated 16-18-19 of April 1910 By John A. Benkelman
SD 8, ED 112 Sheet No 1 B
17-18
Striffler, Solomon C Hd M W 28 S Mich Ger Germany France Germany Home Farmer
Striffler, Chris? Father M W 82 M1 52 France German France German France German
Striffler, Mary Mother F W 72 M1 8/6 Ger Germany Ger Germany Ger German

1930 Census
Michigan, Tuscola County, Elkland, ED 12
Striffer, Solomon C Hd M W 48 M @ 28 Mich Alsace-Lorraine Germany Farmer
Striffer, Mary L Wife F W 40 M @ 23 Mich Germany Germany
Striffer, Delvin L Son M W 14 Michigan Michigan Michigan
Striffer, Russell C Son M W 7 Michigan Michigan Michigan

Solomon married Mary Magdalene Buehrly on 29 Jun 1910 in Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan. Mary (daughter of Johann Leonhard Buehrly and Catherine Buerk) was born on 19 Jun 1887 in Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan; died on 30 Dec 1963 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, July 21, 1911
Local Happenings
Page 4


Misses Bertha Benkelman of this place and Lottie Benkelman of St. Francis, Kansas, left Saturday morning on a trip to Detroit and Buffalo.

A Mrs. (sic) Lottie Benkelman of Cheyenne County, Kansas was listed, along with 12 others from that county, in the State of Kansas Directory of State Officers, Boards and Commissions, Issued by J. T. Botkin, Kansas Secretary of State on October, 1915. A PDF of this books can be viewed on Google Books.

Cass City Chronicle
September 7, 1917
The Week's Doings, Page 4

Miss Lottie Benkelman, who was a guest of Mrs. M. M. Schwegler, returned Thursday to her home in St. Francis, Kansas.

Lottie didn't marry until later in life. She had remained at home to care for her parents. She married first Farmer L. Shields and later William Maurice Ball, on 25 September 1954 in Denver, Colorado.

As of the 1955 issue of the Striffler-Benkelman broadcast, she was living in Corvallis, Oregon.

Lottie married Farmer L. Shields on 4 Apr 1929 in St. Francis, Cheyenne County, Kansas. Farmer was born about 1879 in Iowa; and died. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Pharmacist and had a pharmacy in Kansas City, Missouri before moving to West Coast. The Striffler-Benkelman Broadcast, Volume 10, dated September 1, 1947, reported that "Frank Benkelman of Littleton, Colo. suffered a heart attack last Nov. and still is not able to be about."

A website about the historic Captain Fletcher's Inn (ca. 1865) at the Navarro Beach area of the Navarro River Redwoods State Park states that on March 20, 1931, the Gilmores sold the Inn to Frank B. Benkelman (Mendocino County Official Records, Book 58, pp. 445-446 hereafter Official Records). Frank and his wife, Effie held the property until he died. It was a prosperous period for the Inn. Several local sources say that Clark Gable and Carole Lombard spent part of their "honeymoon" at the Inn. It is possible that they spent some time at the Inn, after their marriage on March 29, 1939, since Gable liked remote places and enjoyed salmon fishing. According to Lyn Tornabene in her book, Long Live the King (New York: 1976 p. 279), Gable and Lombard spent many days fishing the Rogue River. The Benkelmans also conveyed a portion of the original property to the state of California for purposes of building a highway on May 16, 1940.(Official Records, Bk. 142, p. 266). After her husband's death, Mrs. Benkelman married a second time to Robert Linn, the father of Geneva Linn (Mrs. Frank Ray).


http://www.navarro-by-the-sea-center.org/history5.html


Art Peck also shows him as married to a Dorothy Miller, however it appears that it must have been another Frank Benkelman who married Dorothy Miller,

The following is a brief biography of Nellie Burget Miller, Poet Laureate of Colorado in 1923:
"Nellie Burget grew up in Fayette, Iowa, graduating from high school at the age of fifteen and earning a B.S. from Upper Iowa University in 1894. She married Dr. Lucas A. Miller in 1894 and in 1908 they moved to Colorado Springs. Together they had three children: Dorothy, Arnold, and Muriel Imogene. Dorothy was an accomplished schoolteacher in Denver. DOROTHY [MILLER] AND HUSBAND FRANK BENKELMAN did not have children. Arnold Miller served in World War II and ran a medical practice in Denver. Arnold and his wife Mabel had three children."

Census records, however, show that Nellie Miller's daughter Dorothy was born ca 1901 in Iowa, and at the time of the 1910 and 1920 federal census enumerations, she was still living at home with her parents in Colorado Springs, and was listed as single. By the time of the 1930 census, she was living in Haxtun, Phillips County, Colorado, and boarding in someone's else home. She was listed as single, and as a school teacher.

At the same time that Dorothy Miller is still a single schoolgirl in Colorado Springs (1910), Frank Benjamin Benkelman can be found with his wife Effie in St. Louis, and Frank, Effie and John can be found again in 1930, in California, while Dorothy Miller was a single schoolteacher in Colorado. And as Frank Benjamin Benkelman was said to have remained married to Effie until his death, it could not have been the same Frank Benkelman that married Dorothy Miller.

(Research):

Census Listings:

1910 Census
Missouri, Jackson County, Kansas City
Enumerated 23 Apr 1910
SD 5 ED 38 Sheet 11A Stamped 11
501-132-226
Benkelman, Frank B Hd m W 28 M1 1 Co Germany German Germany German Eng Prescription Clerk Drug
Benkelman, Effie Wf W FW 19 M1 1 0/0 Iowas Iowa Iowa

1920 Census
Not located

1930 Census
California, Santa Clara, San Jose Twp
Enumerated 4 Apr 1930
ED 43-4 SD 10 Sheet 3A Stamped 50
George Steet
131-79-83
Benkelman, Frank B Head R $35 M W 48 M 27 Colo NY Germany Retired
Benkelman, Effie F Wf F W 38 M 18 Mo Ind Iowa
Benkelman, John F Son M W 10 S Mo Colo Mo

Frank married Effie Fay Black before 1910. Effie was born on 6 Aug 1887 in Dallas County, Missouri; died on 7 Oct 1974 in San Jose, Santa Clara County, California. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Charles married Hertha Kerndt on 15 Jul 1913. Hertha was born on 30 Jul 1889 in Bird City, Cheyenne County, Kansas; died on 30 Apr 1968 in McDonald, Rawlins County, Kansas. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

The Striffler-Benkelman Broadcast, Volume 10, dated September 1, 1947, had note in the "Vacations" section that read: "We are certainly looking forward to meeting Mrs. F.L. Shields of St. Francis, Kansas and Dr. and Mrs. Albert Benkelman and daughters, Barbara and Bonnie at the 1947 reunion. We hope that many more will plan their vacations so they meet with the rest of us at Uncle John's Woods on Labor Day."

Volume 22 of the same periodical, dated September 7, 1959, reported that Albert and Ruth Benkelman attended his Fiftieth graduating class reunion at St. Francis, Kansas. Six of his classmates were present.

A dentist in St. Francis, Kansas, he retired to Denver in 1947.

(Research):Census Listings:

1930 Census
Kansas, Cheyenne County, Wano, St. Francis City
ED 12-18 SD 1 Sheet 10A Stamped 300

79-84
Benkelman, George A Hd O $6000 M W 39 M 27 Kansas NY German
y Physician
Benkelman, Ruth L Wf F W 38 M 26 Kansas Illinois Illinois
Benkelman, Mary B Adopted Dtr F W 3 6/12 S Neb US US
Benkelman, Bonnie J Adopted Dtr F W 2 1/12 S Neb US US
82-8?
Shields, Farmer L Hd O $12,000 M W 51 M21 Iowa Ill Iowa President Commercial Bank
Shiels, Lottie B Wf F W 49 M 48 Colorado NY Germany

George married Ruth May Lockwood on 1 Dec 1917. Ruth was born on 2 Apr 1892 in St. Francis, Cheyenne County, Kansas; died on 13 Jun 1973 in Denver, Denver County, Colorado; was buried in St. Francis Cemetery, Cheyenne County, Kansas. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Cass City Chronicle
Cass City, Michigan, Dec. 21, 1928
Page Five
Where they will spend Christmas

Mr. and Mrs. J.A. Sandham and daughters, Mr. and Mrs. Angus McPhail of Cass City, Mr. and Mrs. F.C. Striffler and children of Caro, Dr. and Mrs. Harry Striffler of Pontiac will spend Christmas Day with Mr. and Mrs. William MORETON in Detroit.

Cass City Chronicle
July 12, 1940
Local Items
Page 5

Mrs. John Sandham drove to Detroit on Tuesday to attend a bridal shower for her niece, Miss Leila Hartwick. Albert McPhail accompanied her to Detroit and returned to Cass City with her on Wednesday evening.

Cass City Chronicle
Thursday, May 15, 1969
Page 3

Final rites today for Mrs. Sandham

Funeral services will be held Thursday at 2 p.m. at the Trinity United Methodist Church for Mrs. Grace Sandham, 84, a lifelong member of the community.

Mrs. Sandham died Tuesday, May 13, at Sparrow General Hospital in Lansing.

She was born in Elkland township May 5, 1885, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Striffler. She married the late John Sandham in Detroit May 9, 1910. They lived in Argyle before moving to Cass City.

Mr. Sandham died Feb. 17, 1964. The Sandhams were well-known public and business figures in the community.

They were one of several families to make room-size ($5,000 or more) donations to the Hills and Dales General Hospital.

Mrs. Sandham was a member of the Cass City (Trinity) United Methodist Church.

She is survived by three daughters, Mrs. Roy (Pauline) BRIGGS of St. Johns, Mrs. Raymond (Delores) GREEN of Albion and Mrs. A.E. (Johanna) VALLIER of Plymouth.

The Rev. Donald Turbin will officiate at the final rites.

Burial will be in Elkland Cemetery.

(Transcribed by Melinda McLemore Strong, 2007 and 2008)

(Research):
Census Information:

1920 Census
Michigan, Tuscola, Township of Elkland, Village of Cass City
Enumerated 7th January 1920
SD 7 ED 179 Sheet 2B
47-47
Sandham, John A. Hd M W 42 M 1880 Na 1905 Canada English Canada English Canada English Agent Life Insurance
Sandham, Grace L. Wf F W 34 M Mich NY Canada English
Sandham, Pauline A Dtr F W 8 S Mich Canada Mich
Sandham, Deloris Dtr 6 S Mich Canada English Mich
Sandham, Johanna J Dtr F W 3 11/12 S Mich Canada English Mich

Grace married John A. Sandham on 9 May 1910 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan. John was born on 5 Feb 1877 in Telsonburg, Ontario, Canada; died on 17 Feb 1964 in Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan; was buried on 20 Feb 1964 in Elkland Township Cemetery, Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Cass City Chronicle
Volume 59, Number 32
Thursday, November 25, 1965


Mrs. MacPhail Succumbs Friday

Mrs. Lillian MacPhail, 79, pioneer of Cass City and wife of a former Cass City businessman, died Friday at Hills and Dales General Hospital.

She had been in ill health for a year and suffered for many years from arthritis.

She was born in Elkland township, Nov. 6, 1886, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Striffler.

She married Angus MacPhail in Argyle Jan. 7, 1914. Mr. MacPhail started and operated a successful business as a funeral director in Cass City from 1920 until shortly before his death on Sept. 19, 1952 (sic).

Mrs. MacPhail was a member of the Cass City Methodist Church.

Surviving are: a son Dr. Albert MacPhail of Flint; two sisters, Mrs. Grace Sandham of Cass City and Mrs. Ruth Moreton of Detroit, and three grandchildren.

Funeral services were held at Little's Funeral Home at 3 p.m. Saturday. The Rev. james Braid, pastor of the First Methodist Chruch, officiated.

Burial was in Elkland cemetery.

(Transcribed by Melinda McLemore Strong, February 2008)

(Research):Census Listings:

1930 Census
Michigan, Tuscola County, Elkland Twp, Cass City Village
Enumerated 4 April 1930
ED 79-11 SD 11 Sheets 2A and 2B Stamped 185


40-41
McPhail, Angus Hd M W 49 M 33 Mich Scotland Scotland Mortician Undertaking
McPhail, Lillian E Wife F W 41 m 25 Mich NY Ct
McPhail, Albert A Son Adopted M W 3/12 S Mich Ohio Ohio

Lillian married Angus MacPhail on 7 Jan 1914 in Argyle, Sanilac County, Michigan. Angus was born about 1881 in Argyle, Sanilac County, Michigan; died on 19 Sep 1942 in Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan; was buried on 22 Sep 1942 in Elkland Township, Tuscola County, Michigan. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Cass City Chronicle
Friday, June 19, 1936
Turning Back the Pages
Twenty Five Years Ago
June 23, 1911

Miss Ruth Striffler, who has been teaching at Tecumseh the past two years, has accepted a position for next year in the public schools in Marchfield, Oregon, a thriving western city of 6,000.

Cass City Chronicle
Friday, May 30, 1913
Local Items, page 4

Ruth Striffler of Argyle was the guest of her sister, Mrs. J.A. Sandham, Friday.

Cass City Chronicle
September 4, 1914
Local Items, page 4

Miss Ruth Striffler left Monday morning for Blackfoot, Idaho, where she accepted a position in the public schools.

(Transcribed by Melinda McLemore Strong, Summer 2007)

Her social security application, completed on October 8, 1952, showed her as Ruth Elizabeth Moreton of 20137 Litchfield, Detroit 21 Mich. She listed her full name at birth as Ruth Elizabeth Stiffler, and gave her date of birth as 23 April 1888 in Cass City. Her parents were shown as Samuel Striffler and Pauline Ahr.

(Research):Census Information:

1920 Census
Michigan, Wayne County, City of Detroit, Dist. 11
SD 145 ED 209 Sheet 3B
115-158
Moreton, William Hd M 34 Utah Utah NY Purchasing Agent, Auto
Moreton, Ruth Wf F 31 Mich NY Ct Teacher

1930 Census
Michigan, Wayne County, Detroit, Pr 44, Ward 14, Block 33
Enumerated 3 Apr 1930
ED 82-1092 SD 70 Sheet 2B
Morton, Williah H Own $12,000 44 m@31 Utah Utah NY Salesman, Bronze-Tools
Morton, Ruth E 41 M@27 Mich NY Ct Teacher

Ruth married William Moreton before 1917. William was born about 1886 in Salt Lake City, Salt Lake County, Utah; died on 23 May 1951 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

The Striffler-Benkelman Broadcast, Vol. 7, September 4, 1944, noted that Fred C. Striffler was appointed State Budget Director by Governor Kelly, and with his family had moved on Lansing. Fred's race horse, Freddie Karen, took first money in Saginaw and was sold for the sum of $1000. As of the September 3, 1945 issue (Vol. 8), it was reported that he was reappointed State Budget Director, and that he and his wife and daughter, Marjorie, had attended the Governor's Conference at Mackinac Island.

Birth Index Information
Name Fred Striffler
Gender Male
Christening Date:
Christening Place:
Birth Date 30 Apr 1890
Birthplace Greenleaf, Sanilac, Michigan
Death Date:
Name Note:
Race:
Father's Name Samuel Striffler
Father's Birthplace:
Father's Age:
Mother's Name Pauline Ahr
Mother's Birthplace:
Mother's Age:
Indexing Project (Batch) Number C02586-2
System Origin Michigan-ODM
GS Film number 2321266
Reference ID:

Citing this Record:
"Michigan, Births and Christenings, 1775-1995," index, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/F4TK-9RX : accessed 05 Oct 2013), Fred Striffler, 30 Apr 1890.

Death Index Information
Name Fred C Striffler
Event Type Death
Event Date 15 Jul 1948
Event Place Caro, Tuscola, Michigan, United States
Gender Male
Age 58
Marital Status Married
Birth Date 30 Apr 1890
Birthplace Cass City, Michigan
Birth Year (Estimated) 1890
Father's Name Samuel Striffler
Mother's Name Pauline Ahr
GS Film number 1973115
Digital Folder Number 005240517
Image Number 02518

Citing this Record:
"Michigan, Death Certificates, 1921-1952," index, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/KF7J-LTS : accessed 05 Oct 2013), Fred C Striffler, 1948.

(Research):Census Information:

1920 Census
Michigan, Tuscola County, Caro Village, Indiansfields Twp
Enumerated 19 January 1920
SD 7 ED 190 Sheet 18B
217-228-364
Striffler, Fred C. Hd M W 29 M Mich Mich Mich Retail Salesman Garage
Striffler, Hazel Wf F W 28 M Mich Canada English Mich
Striffler, Dorothy Dtr F W 5 S Iowa Mich Mich
Striffler, Charlotte Dtr F W 4 S Iowa Mich Mich


1930 Census
Michigan, Tuscola County, Caro Village, Indiansfields Twp
Enumerated April 18, 1930
ED 79-22 SD 11 Sheet 20A
531-546
Striffler, Fred C. Hd O 4500 M W 30 M Mich Mich Mich Owner Auto Sales Co
Striffler, Helene L Wf F W 34 M 27 Mich Mich Mich
Striffler, Dorothy A Dtr F W 15 S Iowa Mich Mich
Striffler, Charlotte R Dtr F W 12 S Iowa Mich Mich
Striffler, Marjorie J Dtr F W 1 S Mich Mich Mich
Janes, Orrin K Father-in-law M W 63 M 23 Mich Mich Mich Insurance Age Auto Insurance Co
Janes, Minnie A Mother-in-law F W 62 M 22 Mich NJ NJ
Darbee, Iva Servant F W 20 S Mich NY Mich Servant Private Home

Fred married Hazel L. Campbell on 1 Jan 1912 in Tuscola County, Michigan. Hazel was born on 14 Jun 1891 in Michigan; died on 11 May 1922 in Caro, Tuscola County, Michigan. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Fred married Helene Laing Janes on 9 Jan 1923 in Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan. Helene was born on 17 Feb 1896 in Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan; died on 20 May 1973 in Lansing, Ingham County, Michigan. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Cass City Chroncile
June 18, 1925
(As reported in the DOWN MEMORY LANE column published on Junr 16, 1950)

Harry C. Striffler will be graduated from the dental department of the U. of M. next week and will go to Monroe to practice with a dentist in that city.

Cass City Chronicle
Cass City, Michigan, Nov. 25, 1921
Page Five
Thanksgiving Guests
Mr. and Mrs. J.A. Sandham, and family spent Thanksgiving with Dr. and Mrs. Harry Striffler in Pontiac.

Cass City Chronicle
Cass City, Michigan, June 8, 1923
Local News, Page Four

Dr. and Mrs. Harry Striffler and son, David, of Pontiac visited Saturday and Sunday at the home of Mr. and Mrs. John A. Sandham. S.W. Striffler returned with them to Pontiac.

Cass City Chronicle
Cass City, Michigan, August 31, 1923
Local Happenings

Mrs. Angus McPhail left Monday for Pontiac where she spent a few days visiting at the home of her brother, Dr. Harry Striffler.

Name Harry C Striffler
Event Type Death
Event Date 28 Dec 1951
Event Place Pontiac, Oakland, Michigan, United States
Gender Male
Age 61
Marital Status Married
Birth Date 19 Jul 1891
Birthplace Michigan
Birth Year (Estimated) 1890
Father's Name Samuel Striffler
Mother's Name Pauline Ahr
GS Film number 1973060
Digital Folder Number 005240312
Image Number 01751

Citing this Record:
"Michigan, Death Certificates, 1921-1952," index, FamilySearch (https://familysearch.org/pal:/MM9.1.1/KFQB-QQH : accessed 05 Oct 2013), Harry C Striffler, 1951.

(Research):Census Listings:

1920 Census
Michigan, Monroe County, Monroe City
Enumerated 17 January 1920
SD 2 ED 121 Sheet 10B
222-230
Striffler, Harry C Hd M W 28 M Mich NY Ct
Striffler, Jemma Wf F W 22 M Mich Mich Mich


1930 Census
Michigan, Oakland County, Pontiac Township
ED 63-77 SD 14 Sheet 24B
Oliver, Mildred Hd O 30,000 F W 58 Wd Mich Germany Germany
Striffler, Harry Hd O 17,000 M W 35 M 26 Mich NY NY Dentist Own Office
Striffler, Gemma Wf F W 31 M 19 Mich Mich Mich
Striffler, David Son M W 7 S Mich Mich Mich

Harry married Gemma Romine on 2 Aug 1916 in Monroe County, Michigan. Gemma was born on 5 Dec 1897 in Michigan; died in Mar 1974. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Cass City Chronicle
Friday, July 21, 1911
Local Happenings
Page 4


Misses Bertha Benkelman of this place and Lottie Benkelman of St. Francis, Kansas, left Saturday morning on a trip to Detroit and Buffalo.


Cass City Chronicle
Friday, May 24, 1929
Obituaries

Mrs. Bruce Williams

The remains of Mrs. Bruce Williams were brought from her home in Almena, Kansas to Cass City, arriving heer Sunday morning. Funeral services were conducted in the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Samuel G. Benkelman, on Third street, by Rev. Geo. Hill, pastor of the M.E. church on Monday afternoon. Interment was made in Elkland cemetery.

Bertha Benkelman was born in Cass City on August 1, 1883, and graduated from Cass City High School with the class of 1900. She was employed as a compositor in the plant of the Cass City Chronicle for several years and later entered the employ of the Herald at St. Francis, Kansas. On her return to Cass City from Kansas, she was employed as bookkeeper in the implement store of J. A. Caldwell.

On December 11, 1912, Miss Bertha Williams was united in marriage with Bruce Williams. While Mr.Williams was employed as a railway mail clerk on the Rock Island R.R. they made their home at Republic and Omaha, Nebraska. About seven years ago, they moved to Almena, Kansas, where they devoted their attention to the interests on their large farm there. Mrs. Williams had been ill about eight months previous to her death on Thursday, May 16. Death was due to cancer. Funeral services at Almena were held at the M.E. church Friday afternoon. Besides her parents she is survived by two brothers, Joseph and Ward Benkelman, both of Cass City.

Mrs. Williams was a member of the M.E. church at Almena and was affiliated with the Order of the Eastern Star and the Rebekahs. Her cheerful helpful life will linger long as a fragrant memory with the large number she won as friends.

(Research):
Census Information

At the time of the 1910 Michigan Census, she was living with Benjamin Benkelman, Sr, her Uncle, in Tuscola County.

1920 Census
Nebraska, Douglas County, Omaha, Ward 10
Enumerated 10 Jan 1920
SD 2, ED 113, Sheet 5A
620-87-105
Williams, Edwin B Hd M W 41 M Pa Pa Mo Mail Clerk Railway
Williams, Bertha C Wf F W 36 M Mich NY Mich

1930 Census
Edwin B. Williams, 51 and widowed, was shown as being born in Pennsylvania, with his father also being born in that state and his mother in Missouri. He was living alone, in Almena, Norton County, Kansas (ED 69-3, SD 1, Sheet 8A, stamped 15).

Bertha married Edwin Bruce Williams on 11 Dec 1912 in Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan. Edwin was born on 29 Jul 1878 in Jefferson County, Pennsylvania; died on 11 Jan 1963; was buried in Almena, Norton County, Kansas. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Ethel's granddaugher, Susan Orr Wagner, writes that she was named Mary Ethel Striffler, but was always called Ethel. When her younger sister, Mary Elizabeth was born and went by her first name Mary, her elder sister Ethel dropped Mary from her name entirely. On census records she was referred to as Ethel M, changing her first name to her middle initial.

Cass City Chronicle
Thursday, March 30, 1967

Double Services for the Robert H. Orrs

Funeral services for Mr. and Mrs. Robert H. Orr, natives of the Cass City area, were held Thursday, March 28, at the funeral home in Pigeon.

Mr. Orr, 74, died Monday, March 20 in the Pigeon hospital after a brief illness. He was born May 10, 1892, in Cass City. His wife, 72, the former Ethel Striffler, died Wednesday, March 22, in the same hospital. She was born March 28, 1894, in Sanilac county.

The couple were married Aug. 15, 1916, at Cass City and in 1917 they moved to Pigeon where he operated a drugstore.

Their survivors are: two daughters, Mrs. Albert Fetting and Miss Marjorie Orr, both of Saginaw; two sons, Robert of Livonia and John of Pigeon, and eight grandchildren.

Mr. Orr is also survived by one brother, Morton Orr of Cass City. Four sisters and a brother are among Mrs. Orr's survivors. They are: Mrs. Wilma Fry of Port Huron, Mrs. E.B. Gardiner of Port Austin, Mrs. Ione Sturm of Detroit, Mrs. George Southworth of Elkton, and the Rev. Roy Striffler.

Burial was in Elkland Cemetery.

(Transcribed by Melinda McLemore Strong, April 2008)

(Research):
Census Information:

1930 Census
Michigan, Huron County, Pigeon, Winsor Township
Enumerated April 9, 1930
ED 32-39 SD 11 Sheet 5B
133-137
Orr, Robert H. Hd O $3000 R M W 37 M 24 Michigan Ireland Canada-English Druggist Drug Store
Orr, Ethel M Wf F W 36 M 22 Mich Mich Germany
Orr, Ethel M Dtr F W 12 S Mich Mich Mich
Orr, Robert S Son M W 8 S Mich Mich Mich
Orr, John L Son M W 4 3/12 Mich Mich Mich

Mary married Robert Hugh Orr on 15 Aug 1916 in Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan. Robert (son of Robert George Orr and Emily Pettit) was born on 10 May 1892 in Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan; died on 20 Mar 1967 in Pigeon, Huron County, Michigan; was buried on 28 Mar 1967 in Elkland Township Cemetery, Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Cass City Chronicle
Friday, October 5, 1928
Vol. 23, No. 25.

Rev. Striffler is Ordained Pastor

Rev. Roy J. Striffler, son of Mr. and Mrs. W.D. Striffler of Cass City, was ordained as minister in the Congregational church on Thursday, September 27, at North Fairfield, Ohio. The examination was held at three o'clock after which a banquet was served to 25 visiting members. The ordination services were held in the evening. Dr. Graham gave an address on "The Love of Christ Compels." Ordination prayer was give by Rev. Harry Trust of Mansfield. The charge to the minister was given by Rev. Horton of Oberlin and the charge to the people by Rev. B.P. Claggett of Sandusky. Rev. and Mrs. Striffler are moving to Oberlin for the winter were Mr. Striffler will take special work at Oberlin College.

(Transcribed by Melinda McLemore Strong, April 2008)

Cass City Chronicle
August 28, 1936
Page 4

Rev. and Mrs. Roy Striffler and children of Geneva, Ohio, came in on Saturday to spend several days with Mr. Striffler's parents, Mr. and Mrs. W.D. Striffler.

Cass City Chronicle
Friday, February 18, 1949
Vol. 43, Number 43

Rev. Roy Striffler goes to New Baltimore

Rev. Roy Striffler, who has served the Congregational Church at Geneva, Ohio, as minister for 15 years, has resigned to go to New Baltimore, Mich., where he will be pastor of the Community Church. The Strifflers have three children. Their son, David, is a student in the school of forestry at Michigan State College. Rev. Mr. Striffler was graduated from Cass City High School in 1916 and is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. D. Striffler.

(Transcribed by Melinda McLemore Strong, Summer 2007)

Volume 22 of the STRIFFLER-BENKELMAN BROADCAST, dated September 7, 1959, reported Rev. R.J. Striffler accepted a call to the First Congregational Chruch in Bay City, Michigan effective May 1, after 10 years in New Baltimore, Michigan. The September 6, 1965 issue of the same periodical reported that after six years of service in Bay City, Rev. Striffler resigned to accept a call to the Congregational Christian Church of Berkay, Ohio. This is a rural community about 15 miles northwest of Toledo, Ohio. Roy says he is tapering off before retirement.

Volume 28 of the STRIFFLER-BENKELMAN BROADCAST, dated September 2, 1968, reported that the Rev. Stiffler woudl retire from the full time Pastorate on Oct. 15. The family had purchased a home in Wauseon, Ohio in which to spend their retirement years. On September 29, a service of Thanksgiving was to be held in the Congregational Christian Church at Berley, Ohio, where Roy was currently pastor. This was to also recoginze the fortieth anniversary of his ordination.

(Research):Census Information:

1930 Census
Ohio, Huron County, Fairfield Township, North Fairfield Vil
lage
Enumerated Apr 12, 1930
ED 39-3 SD 3 Sheet 8B
83-84
Stiffler, Roy J. Hd R $15 M W 32 M 29 Mich Mich Germany Wuertenberg Minister Church Congregational
Striffler, Grace D. Wife F W 34 M 31 New Jersey New York New Jersey
Striffler, R. Phillip Son M W 1 10/12 Son Ohio Mich NJ
Striffler, W. David Son M W 9/12 Ohio Mich NJ

Roy married Grace Darling Foster about 1927. Grace was born on 23 Feb 1896 in Bayhead, Ocean County, New Jersey; died on 17 Nov 1972 in Wauseon, Fulton County, Ohio. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Cass City Chronicle
Friday, November 8, 1912
Local Items

The Mission band of the Evangelical Church met and elected officers for the next six months Sunday. Mrs. O.Y. Schneider is Superintendent and the officers are as follows: President, Ione Striffler; vice president, Mildred Schneider; secretary, Florence Striffler; treasurer, Glen Bixby. The Band will meet every Sunday afternoon at 2:30 p.m. and preparations are being made for interesting programs.

She was a registered pharmacist in Detroit.

(Research):Census Information:

61-37-37
Sturm, William H. Hd R $70 M W 22 M 26 Mich Ohio Mich Dentist General Practice
Strum, Ione K Wife H F W 30 M 24 Mich Mich Germany Pharmacist Drug Store
Striffler, Mary E Sister-in-law F W 22 S Mich Mich Germany Stenographer Arnamental? Lab

Ione married William H. Sturm on 23 Aug 1923 in Wauseon, Fulton County, Ohio, and was divorced in 1940. William was born about 1897 in Michigan; and died. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

(Research):
Census Information:

1930 Census
Michigan, Huron County, Colfax township
Enumerated April 24, 1930 by Mabel Bass
ED 32-10 SD 11, Sheet 6B
133-138
Southworth, George V Hd M W 28 M21 Michigan Canada-English Canada-English Farmer
Southworth, Florence E Wf F W 29 M20 Michigan Michigan Germany
Southworth, Donald L Son M W 6 S California Michigan Michigan
Southworth, Dorothy E Dtr F W 2 3/12 S California California

Family/Spouse: George Victor Southworth. George was born on 1 May 1901 in Elkton, Huron County, Michigan; died on 6 Jun 1986 in Huron County, Michigan. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

The Cass City Chronicle
February 9, 1923
Local Happenings
Page Four
The high school annual is well under way, all plans being nearly complete. The staff...had been organized and working for several months with untiring enthusiasm: Business manager, Grant Pinney; assitant, Nila Burt; editor-in-chief, Bernice Wager; assitants, Wilma Striffler and Lilah Spurgeon...

Cass City Chronicle
Friday, Jun 8, 1923
Page One
Largest Class in H.S. History
The largest class ever to be graduated from the Cass City high school, 17 boys and 26 girls, will be presented with diplomas at the opera house next Thursday evening...the Class Day program included a class history, Irvine Striffler...class prophecy, Wilma Striffler...both were listed as member of the Class of '23

Cass City Chronicle
July 6, 1923
Page Four
Local Items
Miss Wilma Striffler is employed at the millinery shop of Mrs. Julia Gay.

Cass City Chronicle
Sept. 14, 1923
Page Four
Local Items
Dr. and Mrs. C. W. Clark of Caro, accompanied by Miss Wilma Striffler of this place, leave next Monday on a motor trip to California. Taking the Lincoln Highway route, they will camp along the way stopping to visit at the following places: Oriona, St. Louis, Mich., Lake Odessa and Gary, Indiana. They will spend the winter in California, Miss Striffler visiting at the home of her sister, Mrs. Geo. Southworth at Dinuba.

Cass City Chronicle
Oct. 19, 1923
Page Four
Local Items
A letter recently received by Mr. and Mrs. W. D. Striffler from their daughter, Miss Wilma Striffler, states that the motor party with which Miss Striffler is making a trip to California has advanced as far as Simeron, New Mexico. She also told of climbing to the summit of a mountain and viewing Pike's Peak. It is expected that by the time this paper reaches its readers that the young lady will be nearly to her destination.

Cass City Chronicle
March 27, 1925
Page Four
Local Items
Miss Wilma Striffler, who has been in Dinuba, California for some time, returned to her home her Tuesday.


Cass City Chronicle
August 20, 1926
Page Four
Local Items
Members of the Christian Endeavour gave a farwell party in the basement of the Evangelical church Tuesday evening, in honor of Mrs. Wilma Striffler. After an hour of games, ice cream and frosted cake were served. Mrs. A. A. Ricker, in presenting Miss Striffler with a scarf from C. E. members, commended her for faithfulness and efficiency in church work. Miss Striffler is expected to leave hear next Monday for Los Angeles, California, and later will go to San Luis Obispo, California, where her sister, Mrs. Geo Southworth, resides.

Cass City Chronicle
Friday, Oct. 4, 1929
Local Happenings
Page Two
Miss Wilma Striffler left Tuesday morning for Detroit where she visited her sisters, Mrs. William STURM and Miss Mary STRIFFLER, and left there Wednesday to return to her work at San Luis Obispo, California, after a month's visit with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. W.D. STRIFFLER.

Cass City Chronicle
Friday, October 14, 1932
Local Happenings
Page Six
Mr. and Mrs. W. D. Striffler, son Delmar, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Fry and little daughter of Cass City and Mr. and Mrs. Robert Orr and family of Pigeon spent Sunday at Whip-poor-will Harbor.

Cass City Chronicle
Friday, July 6, 1934
Local Happenings
Page Four
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Fry and two daughters left Wednesday morning for San Luis Obispo, California, where they will make their home.


Cass City Chronicle
Friday, July 7, 1939
Local Happenings
Page Four
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Fry and two daughters, Joyce and Jessie, of San Luis Obispo, California, will leave home today to make the trip to Michigan. They expect to spend two months with Mrs. Fry's parents, Mr. and Mrs. W. D. Striffler, and other relatives here.

Cass City Chronicle
Friday, July 28, 1939
Local Happenings
Page Three
Mrs. Robert Fry and children, Joyce and Jessie, of San Luis Obispo, California, Mrs. Ione Sturm of Detroit, and Mr. and Mrs. W. D. Striffler returned Thursday from a week's visit at the Orr cottage at Sunshine Beach. Miss Mary Striffler spent the week-end at the W. D. Striffler home in Cass City and returned to Plymouth Sunday with her sister, Mrs. Ione Sturm, of Detroit. Mrs. Sturm has spent a two weeks' vacation with her parents.

Cass City Chronicle
Friday, June 6, 1942
Local Happenings
Page Three
Mrs. Robert Fry and daughters, Joyce and Jessie, expect to leave San Luis Obispo, California, about June 9 for Cass City to make their home with Mrs. Fry's parents, Mr. and Mrs. W. D. Striffler.

Cass City Chronicle
Cass City, Michigan
Thursday, January 22, 1970
Vol. 63, No. 40

Mrs. Wilma Fry dies in Port Huron

Mrs. Wilma S. Fry, 64, succumbed Thursday, Jan. 15, in Port Huron Hospital where she had been a patient one day.

Mrs. Fry, former Cass City Village clerk and treasurer, had made her home in Port Huron for the past four years. Born in Argyle Aug. 9, 1905, she was the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. William Striffler. She married Robert Fry in California and the couple made their home at San Luis Obispo. He died in 1942 and Mrs. Fry moved to Cass City that year. She was a member of Salem United Methodist Church and Zonita International--a charter member of the Cass City Club. Funeral services were held Saturday, Jan. 17, at Little's Funeral Home with Rev. Ira Wood, pastor of Salem Church, officiating. Burial was in Elkland cemetery.

Surviving are: two daughters, Mrs. Harold (Joyce) WILLARD of Port Huron and Mrs. Paul (Jessie) BERRIMAN of Ferndale, three grandchildren, one brother, Rev. Roy STRIFFLER of Ohio, and three sisters, Mrs. Ione STURM of Detroit, Mrs. George SOUTHWORTH of Elkton and Mrs. Edward GARDINER of Port Austin.

(Transcribed by Melinda McLemore Strong)

(Research):Census Information:

1930 Census
California, San Luis Obispo County, San Luis Obispo

Wilma D. Striffler was listed as a lodger in the home of Lucy McBee, age 73. Wilma was shows as age 24, single, and a bookkeeper for a grocery store.

Wilma married Robert Ellsworth Fry on 8 Nov 1930 in San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo County, California. Robert was born on 23 Nov 1904 in California; died on 2 Mar 1942 in San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo County, California. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Cass City Chronicle
Wednesday, January 15, 1997
Page 5
Obituaries

Mary Gardiner

Mary Elizabeth Gardiner, 88, of Port Austin, died Saturday, Jan. 11, 1997, at her home following a long illness.

She was born March 4, 1908, in Argyle, daughter of William and Elizabeth (Zinnecker) Striffler. She married Edward B. Gardiner Oct. 1, 1941, in Ohio. He died in October 1982.

One of the founding members of the Port Austin United Protestant Church, she was also a board member of the Port Austin Township Library, a member of the U&I Club of Port Austin, Port Austin Senior Citizens Club, Port Austin Women's Club, the Priscilla Club of Port Austin and the Audubon Society of Michigan. She and her husband retired in 1956 from the Detroit House of Corrections in Plymouth to Broken Rocks near Port Austin.

Surviving are one sister, Florence Southworth of Elkton; one step-grandson; 2 step-great-granddaughters, and several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by one step-daughter, Virginia Klopp; 3 brothers, Roy, Delmar and Daniel Striffler; 3 sisters, Ethel Orr, Ione Sturm and Wilma Fry, and one step-great-grandson.

Services were to be held Wednesday at 1 p.m. at the Kaufman Funeral Home in Bad Axe, with the Rev. Ray A. Jacques, pastor of the Port Austin United Protestant Church, officiating. Interment will be in the Colfax Township Mausoleum.

Memorials may be given to the Port Austin Township Library.

(Transcribed by Melinda McLemore Strong, April 2008)

Mary married Edward Bliss Gardiner on 1 Oct 1941 in Ohio. Edward was born on 14 Oct 1888 in Scandia, Republic County, Kansas; died on 8 Nov 1982 in Bad Axe, Huron County, Michigan. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

A copy of the actual death certificate can be viewed online here:

http://seekingmichigan.org/

Indexed as Striffler, June 22, 1910 Elkland, Tuscola County



(Medical):See attached sources.

Notes:

Cass City Chronicle
December 9, 1932

Mrs. William Sturm and Miss Mary Striffler of Detroit were called to Cass City Nov. 30 because of the serious illness of their brother, Delmar Striffler. Miss Mary returned to her work in Detroit on Sunday. Mrs. Sturm remained to help care for her brother.

(Transcribed by Melinda McLemore Strong, Summer 2007)

Notes:

Cass City Chronicle
Thursday, January 3, 1974
Page 6

Hold Services for Mrs. C. Wood

Mrs. Claude Wood, 72, succumbed Thursday, Dec. 27, in Hills and Dales Hospital.

Born in Sanilac county, Jan. 23, 1901, she was the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Charles Patterson.

The former Cecile Hester Patterson and Mr. Wood were married in Caro Oct. 25, 1923, and the couple made their home in Ellington township.

The Woods celebrated their 50?sup?th?/sup? wedding anniversary Oct. 25, 1973. She had been a member of Salem United Methodist Church for 65 years.

Survivors include her husband; one son, Robert Wood of Cass City; one daughter, Mrs. Carlton (Beatrice) RONDO of Caro; one brother, Grant Patterson of Perry, Mi., and five grandchildren.

Funeral services were held Sunday, Dec. 30, at Little's Funeral Home. The Rev. Ira Wood officiated.

Burial was in Elkland cemetery.

(Transcribed by Melinda McLemore Strong, March 2008)

Cecile married Claude Lee Wood on 25 Oct 1923 in Caro, Tuscola County, Michigan. Claude was born on 1 Nov 1894 in Marlette, Sanilac County, Michigan; died on 27 May 1981 in Tuscola County, Michigan; was buried on 29 May 1981 in Elkland Township Cemetery, Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

His headstone was inscribed "Firefighter."

Grant married Ernestine Manigold on 15 Dec 1933 in Lucas County, Ohio. Ernestine was born on 15 Dec 1905 in Michigan; died on 1 Jun 1985 in Perry, Shiawassee County, Michigan; was buried in Elkland Township Cemetery, Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Cass City Chronicle
Friday, April 2, 1926
Vol. 21, No. 47

Calvin Patterson Fatally Injured

Calvin Patterson, 18, son of Mr. and Mrs. Chas. E. Patterson of Cass City, was fatally injured when the Buick sedan he was driving was struck by the morning train at the P., O. & N. R. R. crossing on West Main St., at nine o'clock Saturday. His skull was crushed and he suffered severe scalp wounds and other injuries about the head. He did not regain consciousness and death came about six hours after the accident.

The sedan was carried down the track ahead of the engine for several hundred feet before the train could be stopped and was totally wrecked. Mr. Patterson was on his way to the home of his sister, Mrs. Claud Wood, who lived a mile west of town, when the accident occured.

This is the second accident at the Main Street crossing in less than three weeks. At the first on March 10, Alex Brian and Glenn Wright were struck by the south-bound passenger train. Both men were injured, but not seriously, and both have recovered.

Calvin Patterson was born in Cass City on May 1, 1907, and has spent his entire life here. The young man was a senior in high school and treasurer of his class, and would have graduated next June. He was an excellent student, had won honors in his high school studies, was prominent in high school athletics, and was a young man who commanded the respect of his acquaintances. The sudden passing has caused great sorrow in the community.

The funeral was delayed until Wednesday because of the absence of his brother, Grant, on a trip to Western states. He was located at Salt Lake City, Utah, on Sunday and arrived home Tuesday evening. The service was held at the family residence at two o'clock and was conducted by Rev. C.F. Smith, pastor of the Evangelical church, of which Mr. Patterson was a member. Members of the Class of '26 attended the funeral in a body and interment was made in Elkland cemetery. Business houses were closed during the funeral hour.

Besides his parents, deceased leaves one brother, Grant, and one sister, Mrs. Claude Wood, both of Cass City.

Out of town relatives and friends at the funeral were Lloyd Phelps of St. Thomas, Ont., Mrs. John Austin of Fort Wayne, Ind., Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Schleuter of Kendalville, Ind., Mr. and Mrs. H.H. Patterson of Flint, Mrs. James Starr and daughter, Evan, and Earl Starr and Buel Starr, all of Pontiac, Fred Striffler of Caro, Harry Hartshorne of Deckerville, Mr. and Mrs. Thad Patterson and daughter, Vernice, of Argyle, Mr. and Mrs. Louis Stiffler of Detroit, D.C. McIntyre of Freeland, and Mr. and Mrs. Bueschlen and Mrs. Dorman of Snover.

(Transcribed by Melinda McLemore Strong, January 2008)

Notes:

The 1928 Los Angeles City Directory showed Alton as a salesman at Howard Motor Company. On the 1930 census, he was listed a a First Aid Man at a movie studio.

The June 4, 1948 issue of the Cass City Chronicle had an article about Pvt. Harold Creguer's trip to Hollywood. He mentioned in the article that he visited with former Cass City residents Mr. and Mrs. Grover Blades of Glendale and Mrs. Barbara McDermott of Alhambra. He also noted that one of the highlights of his trip was a meeting with Alton McDermott at the Warner Brothers studio.

(Research):
Also the father of Noralee Ellen McDermott, born on 30 July 1941, according the the Striffler-Benkelman Broadcast, dated 1 Sept 1941. The California Birth Index shows her Mother's Maiden Name as LICKILLS, so Noralee appears to have been born to a second wife.

Census Listings:

1930 Census
California, Los Angeles County, San Gabriel Twp, Alhambra City
Enumerated April 2, 1930
ED 19-14-3 SD 18 Sheet 1B
No Bushnell Av
417-27-27
McDermott, Alton A Head M W 25 M Mich Mich Mich First Aid Man Movie Studio
McDermott, Marion E Wf F W 21 M 18 Ill NY Mich

Alton married Marian Moore on 24 Sep 1927 in California. Marian was born about 1909 in Illinois; and died. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Volume 23 of the STIFFLER-BENKELMAN BROADCAST, published September 4, 1960, reported that he had quit farming and was currently employed by the L. Damm Implement Company. The family resided at 4333 Ale Street in Cass City.

Cass City Chronicle
Wednesday, May 17, 1989
Page Nine
Obituaries

Clark Helwig

Lifelong Cass City resident Clark Helwig died May 10 at Hills and Dales General Hospital following a lengthy illness. He was 77.

Helwig was born May 22, 1911, in Elkland Township, the son of the late Edward and Mary Striffler Helwig.

He was united in marriage to Myrtle WALTERS April 15, 1939, in Cass City, where they made their home. The couple celebrated their golden wedding anniversary April 15 of this year.

Helwig was a member of the Salem United Methodist Church, Cass City, and the Thumb CB Club.

He is survived by his wife, Myrtle; 8 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. One son, William; one daughter, Judy, and one granddaughter, Dawn, preceded him in death.

Funeral services were held Friday at Salem United Methodist Church with the Rev. Clare Patton, pastor, officiating. Interment was in Elkland Township Cemetery, Cass City.

(Transcribed by Melinda McLemore Strong, February 2008)

Clark married Myrtle Olene Walters on 15 Apr 1939 in Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan. Myrtle was born on 20 Jun 1914 in Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan; died on 9 Jan 1998 in Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan; was buried on 12 Jan 1998 in Elkland Township Cemetery, Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Cass City Chronicle
October 16, 1936
Local Happenings, Page 3

Delvin Striffler, who is a student at the General Motors Institute in Flint, spent the week-end with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. S.C. Striffler.

The Striffler-Benkelman Broadcast, dated September 2, 1946, noted that he and his wife were living in Manchester, N.H.

Cass City Chronicle
Friday, November 5, 1948

Delvin Striffler is New Buick Dealer

Delvin Striffler of Bettendorf, Iowa, is the new owner of the Buick and Pontiac car agency at Caro where he will enter that business on Nov. 15. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. S.C. Striffler and a graduate of Cass City High School and General Motors School of Technology at Flint.

For 12 years he has been associated with the Buick branch of General Motors, and in recent years was a zone service manager. His headquarters have been a points in New Hampshire, Oregon, Iowa and other states.

(Transcribed by Melinda McLemore Strong, Summer 2007)

Delvin married Martha Kane on 24 Jun 1944 in Flint, Genesee County, Michigan. Martha was born on 14 Oct 1919 in Kilbirnie, North Ayrshire, Scotland; died on 17 Oct 2014 in Saginaw, Saginaw County, Michigan. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Cass City Chronicle
Vol. 33, Number 50
Friday, March 10, 1939

Graduating Class of 66 has 20 Honor Students

Russell Striffler is Valedictorian...

The Class of 1939 of the high school at Cass City which will number 66 has an unusually large percentage of honor students, 20 having earned that distinction. Russell Striffler, son of Mr. and Mrs. Solomon C. Striffler, of Cass City heads the list with a nearly perfect record and will be valedictorian.

Cass City Chronicle
Friday, May 16, 1947
Cass City, Michigan

Rev. Russell C. Striffler, son of Mr. and Mrs. Solomon C. Striffler, of Cass City has completed his course in the Evangelical Theological Seminary in Napierville, Ill., and was graduated from that institution during commencement week from April 30 to May 5. He has been pastor of the Evangelical Church at Benton Harbor since last fall, filling the vacancy caused by the illness and death of the former minister of that charge. Rev. Mr. Striffler is attending the Michigan conference of the Evangelical Church at Vicksbury this week.

Volume 12 of the STRIFFLER-BENKELMAN BROADCAST, dated September 5, 1949, reported that her was transferred from the Michigan Conference to the New England Conference, with a pastorate at Medford, Mass.. He was to enroll in Boston University in the Fall to study for his Ph.D. degree. Volume 14 of the same periodical reported that he joined the staff of Iowa Methodist Hospital (Des Moines) as a Chaplain-Psychiatrist to offer a religious approach to those mentally ill or depressed by illness.

His obituary was published in the Minnesota Star Tribune on October 7, 2019:
?b?
?/b?The Rev. Dr. Russell Clare Striffler died of natural causes Sept 14, 2019. He was 97 years old and living in Arden Hills, MN. He was born in Cass City, MI. to S. C. and Mary Striffler. Russell graduated from North Central College in Naperville, IL. In 1945. From there he went on to graduate from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, from Boston University receiving a master's degree in Pastoral Psychology, and from Dubuque Theological Seminary with a Doctorate of Ministry Degree. He married June Gilbert in 1944. They were married for 73 years. Russell served for 37 years as director of Chaplaincy and was Chaplain Supervisor at Iowa Methodist Hospital in Des Moines, IA and St. Luke's Hospital in Cedar Rapids, IA. He is survived by his daughter, June Striffler Sand (David) and his son, David R. Striffler (Marie). He has been graced with four grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. Services will be held at Johanna Shores (Presbyterian Homes - 3200 Lake Johanna Blvd., Arden Hills) on Friday October 11 at 3pm.

Russell married June Rosetta Gilbert in Dec 1944. June was born on 28 Jun 1923 in Oakland Township, Pontiac, Oakland County, Michigan; died on 30 Sep 2017 in Arden Hills, Ramsey County, Minnesota; was buried on 11 Nov 2017 in Elkland Township Cemetery, Cass City, Tuscola County, Michigan. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Postmaster of San Jose, California.

John married Living [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

Wilmont managed the family farm at McDonald, Kansas.

Charles married Melba Hathaway Sparks on 26 Mar 1939. Melba was born on 6 Jun 1916 in Marshall, Saline County, Missouri; died on 17 Mar 2008 in Manhattan, Riley County, Kansas. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

He and his brother, Robert K., were alumni of Kemper Military School of Boonville, Missouri.

http://www.kemperalumni.org/

The brothers were also both veterans of World War II, and are listed online on "Bob's Journal - Kemper men in WWII, Army."

Maj. Ward E. Benkelman, 1937-39
Lt. Robert K. Benkelman, 1939-41
http://okielegacy.org/unclebob/kemperalumni15.html

The Striffler-Benkelman Broadcast, Volume 10, September 1, 1947, wrote that Ward Benkelman was a student at Kansas University in the Medical Department.

Volume 13 of the STRIFFLER-BENKELMAN BROADCAST, published September 4, 1950, reported that he and his wife were living in Honolulu, Hawaii where he was taking his internship at Tripler Hospital.

He later practiced as a physician in St. Francis, Kansas, and later still in Polson, Montana.

Ward married Mary Lewis about 1949 in New York. Mary was born on 6 Jul 1925 in New Haven, New Haven County, Connecticut; died on 29 Apr 1998 in Polson, Lake County, Montana. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

He and his brother, Ward E., were alumni of Kemper Military School of Boonville, Missouri.

http://www.kemperalumni.org/

The brothers were also both veterans of World War II, and are listed online on "Bob's Journal - Kemper men in WWII, Army."

Maj. Ward E. Benkelman, 1937-39
Lt. Robert K. Benkelman, 1939-41
http://okielegacy.org/unclebob/kemperalumni15.html


The Striffler-Benkelman Broadcast, Volume 10, September 1, 1947, wrote that Robert K. Benkelman graduated from the University of Kansas City in Dentistry and was practicing with Dr. Cody's Dental Group in Denver.

Robert married Living [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

The Striffler-Benkelman Broadcast, Volume 10, September 1, 1947, wrote that Mary Barbara Benkelman graduated from Colorado Women's College of Denver.

Volume 23 of the Striffler-Benkelman Broadcast, dated September 7, 1963, noted that Dr. Albert Benkelman's daughter, Barbara, husband and four children moved back to Denver from Seattle during the summer. The other daughter, Bonnie, husband and two children moved from Denver to Chicago where he was employed in Montgomery Ward's office.

She is shown on the SSDI as M. Barbara Park, with her last residence as Littleton, Colorado.

Mary married Herbert Alan Park in Sep 1950. Herbert was born on 21 Feb 1926 in Decatur, Macon County, Illinois; died on 21 Mar 1974. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]

Notes:

The Striffler-Benkelman Broadcast, Volume 10, September 1, 1947, reported that Bonnie Benkelman was a student at Kansas University.

Volume 23 of the Striffler-Benkelman Broadcast, dated September 7, 1963, noted that Dr. Albert Benkelman's daughter, Barbara, husband and four children moved back to Denver from Seattle during the summer. The other daughter, Bonnie, husband and two children moved from Denver to Chicago where he was employed in Montgomery Ward's office.

After her death, her daughters authored a website as a place for her family and friends to share their memories of BonnieMargaret:

http://rememberingbonniemargaret.wordpress.com/

Her listing on the SSDI:

MARGARET M JACOBS 18 Feb 1928 10 Jan 2009 (V) 35401 (Tuscaloosa, Tuscaloosa, AL ) (none specified) 515-22-5894 Kansas

Bonnie also noted on page 5 of her manuscript that although she "may have been Dad's bonnie lass" he never legally changed her name at the time of her adoption, and in the process of trying to get a passport to visit her Aunts in Scotland and the homeland of the Benkelman's in Germany, she decided the most practical course was to begin to use her given legal name, Margaret McDonald.

To her Benkelman relatives who had know her as Bonnie growing up, she suggested they call her BonnieMargaret, or whatever they were most comfortable with.

Bonnie extensively researched the origins of the Benkelman and allied families, beginning her quest after the death of her father when her cousin Bill asked: "Bonnie, what can you tell me about the family?"

She began digging through old family letters and newspaper clippings, visiting relatives in various cities, and even hiring professional genealogists in Germany (Dr. Paul Edel of Aalen and Friedrich Wollmershauser of Stuttgart), and ultimately making a trip to German to view rhe records and the family homes in person. In the preface to her manuscript she said that producing a family history "is remarkably like getting your foot caught in a bear trap. You never intend to find yourself in either mess. It happens accidentally. But once you are committed to it, there is no quick and painless way out of it." Her goal was to publish in 1980, the year her Aunt Lottie would have been 100, and her father 90. She wrote several drafts of the manuscript, before the days of personal computers being widely available, so the long manuscripts were retyped each time. What appears to have been her final draft was completed around 1981. However, as BonnieMargaret was ever the perfectionist she never published or widely circulated her manuscript. Some copies were shared with various relatives, but under strict orders to not copy of disseminate information. Select chapters and drafts of chapters were shared with the family members those chapters pertained to, but the complete draft of the book remained in her possession. After her death, her daughters bequesthed the drafts of her book, along with the voluminous notes and documents used to support her research to the Kansas branch of the Benkelman family. Her history, she said was not a final version, it is a family version. She limited the history to following the Benkelman name, though added there was no Benkelman history without Strifflers, Rommels, Schweglers, Buehrlys, Kolbs, Krapfs, etc etc, and those peopel do pass across the stage, not always remaining.

Barney Benkelman of Helena, Montana was kind enough share a copy of the final draft with me (Melinda McLemore Strong) in 2012.

Family/Spouse: Bruce Hemming Jacobs. Bruce was born on 9 Jul 1926 in Denver, Denver County, Colorado; died on 16 Mar 1998 in Casselberry, Seminole County, Florida. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]