Frederic W. Richter, Sr.
Aug. 28, 1866-Sept. 30, 1943
Niles Daily Star, Friday, October 1, 1943, page 1, col. 4, microfilm Niles District Library
F.W. RICHTER, 77, FORMER MAYOR AND BUSINESSMAN, DIES
Frederic W. Richter, Sr., 77, a resident of Niles for 53 years, died in his home at 554 Hickory street at 11 Thursday night. Although he had been in failing health for two years, death came after an illness of two hours, caused by heart trouble.
He was widely known in Niles, having been in the drug and insurance business. He was also mayor of Niles for two terms beginning in 1896 and served as postmaster for two terms during the administration of President Wilson.
Here 53 Years
Born in Rochester, Ind., Aug. 28, 1866, he came to Niles 53 years ago from Huntington, Ind., and started a drug store at Front and Main streets in the location now occupied by the Paris candy store. The store later was moved to between Second and Third streets and was sold to his brother, Harry, when he was appointed postmaster.
In 1923 he entered the insurance business which he sold to his son, Frederic, Jr., in 1939 when he retired.
He was a member of Trinity Episcopal church, Niles Commandary No. 12, Knights Templar; St. Joseph Valley lodge No. 4, F. and A.M., St Joseph Valley chapter No. 2, R.A. M., and Niles Council No. 19, R. and S.M.
Funeral Saturday
He is survived by his widow; a daughter, Mrs. Paul Thayer and the son, Frederic, Jr., both of Niles; a sister, Mrs. Charles Smith, Huntington, Ind., and four grandchildren.
Friends may call at the Rutherford funeral home until noon Saturday. The body will lie in state in Trinity church from 1:30 to 2:30 Saturday afternoon, when services will be conducted by the Rev. Harry L. Nicholson.
Burial will be in Silverbrook cemetery.
Because of Mr. Richter's death, the Paul Thayer jewelry store will be closed all day Saturday.
Niles Daily Star, Saturday, October 2, 1943, page 2, col. 2, microfilm Niles District Library
CASKET BEARERS
Fred R. Eaglesfield, Jack Young, Arthur Stone, Wilbur Joseph, W.S. Wright, and Alfred Pfister were pallbearers this afternoon for the funeral of Frederic W. Richter, Sr., who died suddenly in his home Thursday night. Services were held at 2:30 in Trinity Episcopal church and burial was in Silverbrook cemetery.