ROSS, Joseph T. - Putnam

Joseph T. Ross, one of the oldest members of Girard Lodge No. 10 both in years as well as in membership and who for many years was the recorder of the lodge, died at his home in Girard, Oct 17th at the age of 84 years.  Born in Carpentersville, Indiana Feb 15, 1844, he moved while young to Peoria, Ill with his parents. There he married June 6, 1872 to Miss N. Cumie Vermillion.  To this union two daughters were born one of whom, Mrs. EL Rice died in 1921. Mr. Ross is survived by his widow, one daughter, Mrs. Walter Locke (sic) of Girard and two grandchildren Keitha Mardel Rice of Tulsa, Okla and Pauline Locke (sic) of Girard.  Mr. and Mrs. Ross moved to Girard in 1881. For a number of years he was employed as a clerk in various stores and then for 29 years he served as janitor in the Girard city school.  He joined the AOUW of Kansas as a member of Girard Lodge Feb 9, 1884 and for 40 years was active in its affairs. - kbz