Transcribed by Mary Ann Kaylor
Page 1437:
McDOLE, JOHN (deceased), for years living retired from active life in his comfortable residence at 919 East Lawrence Street, Springfield, as one of the city's substantial and public-spirited citizens, although prevented by failing health from taking an active part in affairs. Mr. McDole was a native of Buffalo, N. Y., born April 3, 1832 son of Adam and Barbara (Casper) McDole, who were natives of Germany, and migrated to the United States in young man and womanhood. The mother died when John was but four years of age and his father died in 1865, both passing away in Buffalo. The father carried on farming all his life.
The education of John Mc Dole was acquired in the public schools of Buffalo, and after leaving school, he learned the trade of machinist, at which he worked a short time in Buffalo. He moved to Fort Wayne, Ind., and took a position in the shops of the Pittsburg & Fort Wayne Railroad Company, where he remained fifteen years, then became engineer for the same company, running an engine two years. In 1871, Mr. McDole located in Springfield, accepting a position as machinist in the shops of the Wabash Railroad Company, and later taking charge of an engine for them. He continued in the latter position, until a few years ago, when failing health compelled him to resign his position and retire from active life. He was industrious and thrifty in conducting his affairs, and accumulated several pieces of property in Springfield, including his late residence.
Mr. McDole was married in Fort Wayne, Ind., October 6, 1859, to Miss Jane Fenimore, who was born in Peru, Ind., September 1839, daughter of Ebenezer and Rachel (Rardin) Fenimore, the former a native of Virginia, and the latter of Portsmouth, Ohio. Mr. Fenimore was a tailor and conducted an establishment of his own at Portsmouth, Ohio. He died in California about 1861. Two sons and one daughter were born to McDole and his wife, all of whom are deceased. They had six grandchildren, two of whom live in Springfield, Frank McDole and Ada Jane, wife of Arthur Luckey. They also had three great-grandchildren. Mr. and Mrs. McDole joined the Methodist Church and he was affiliated with the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers. In politics he was a Republican. He was one of the most trusted and reliable men employed by the railroad company and stood well with his associates. He was well known in Springfield, where he had many warm friends. His death occurred April 22, 1911.