George E. Ranft
Dec. 12, 1857-April 16, 1929
Niles Daily Star, Tuesday, April 16, 1929, page 1, col. 1, microfilm Niles District Library
GEORGE E. RANFT IS STRICKEN BY DEATH
Passes Away After Illness of Four Years at West Side Home
George E. Ranft, 71, a life long resident of Niles, and ex-alderman of the fourth ward, died this morning about 3:50 at his home 808 Brown avenue, West Niles. He had been in ill health for four years but his condition had been considered critical for about four weeks only. His death is attributed to a complication of diseases.
George Edward Ranft, a son of Ernest and Margaret Ranft, pioneer residents of this section, was born on Dec. 12, 1857 on a farm east of Niles on the Edwardsburg road. When he was about six months of age his parents moved to a farm north and west of Niles which has since been known as the Ranft family home. Mr. Ranft's father died 18 years ago or six months after the death of his mother. Throughout his lifetime Mr. Ranft followed the occupation of a farmer although for many years a resident of West Niles and for two terms he served that ward as alderman. Until this year when he leased a portion of it, he had for a number of years engaged in farming on the 40 acres on which his present home stands and which was many years ago purchased by his father.
Mrs. Ranft was twice married. Fifty years ago he was married to Miss Caroline Guska who died on March 2, 1919. Two children born of this marriage survive their father. They are Lute and Arthur Ranft, both of Niles. On May 10, 1926, Mr. Ranft was married to Mrs. Stella Meldrim who survives him. Besides the sons, and the widow, Mr. Ranft is survived by one brother, Harry Ranft, of Niles, who is yellow commissioner of the city of Niles, and by two sisters, Mrs. Charles Linsenmier and Mrs. Oscar Wyant, both of Niles, and by three grandchildren.
Mr. Ranft was a musician of ability and was a member of the first band organized in Niles and for many years was a member of musical organizations. In the band he played the alto horn.
The funeral services will be held on Thursday afternoon at 2 o'clock in the home. The Rev. G.W. Webbink, pastor of St. John's Evangelical church will officiate. Burial will be made in Silver Brook cemetery.