Franz, John J. (1878-1956)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1956 Mar 22 p. 1

Birth date: 1878

text of obituary:

PROMINENT MT. LAKE BUSINESSMAN CALLED AWAY IN DEATH

Mountain Lake, Minn. — Funeral services for John J. Franz, 80, prominent Mountain Lake merchant, were held March 16 at the Bethel Mennonite Church here. Death came early Tuesday, March 13, at the Bethel Hospital.

Born in Russia on July 5, 1878 [GRANDMA #342939 birth date 11 January 1876], Mr. Franz had been associated with the business life of the community for more than 60 years. He took his first job in a store here in 1894, and in 1902 purchased an interest in the Balzer and Hiebert store. He and his son, Walter, have been sole owners since1947, and the store is known as Franz and Son.

Mr. Franz was also active in community affairs and church work.