JOHN WOODRUFF
1828-1906
OLD RESIDENT GONE.
John Woodruff Passed Away at His Home This Afternoon
John Woodruff, one of the substantial pioneer residents of this place, died at his home on St. Joseph avenue, West Niles, this afternoon, at 2:30 o’clock.
The two brothers, John and Edgar, came here from Saratoga Co., New York, in 1853, and engaged in the retail grocery business in a frame building at the northwest corner of Main and Front streets. The brothers prospered and in 1868, the old frame building was replaced by a four-story brick edifice, in which they transacted business until about fifteen years ago, when Edgar met with an accident, which resulted in his death. From then on until June, 1896, John Woodruff managed the business, which at that time he sold out to G.B. Winter.
Mr. Woodruff was a highly respected citizen and was always relied upon as thoroughly loyal to Niles’ interest and an enthusiastic promoter of them.
Mr. Woodruff was about 78 years of age and had been in failing health for some time. The end was not unexpected.
He is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Louise Jerome and Miss Helen Woodruff. Funeral announcement later.
(Source: Niles Daily Star, Wed. May 9, 1906, page 2, col. 3, microfilm Niles District Library)