RODERICK, JOHN C. (deceased). - In looking back over the history of Springfield, the biographer is struck with the number of its representative men who figured prominently during earlier days, and who have passed away from this life. This city was the home of Lincoln, Douglas, Grant, Logan, and many others who have helped develop the State and make it second in importance in the nation. There are others who, although they did not rise so high in political and military life, bore just as important a part in making history, for they were part of the great backbone of the State. One who belonged to the latter class was the late John C. Roderick, who was for many years a carpenter of Springfield, where his family still reside. He was born in Madeira, in April, 1842, and was an excellent example of the people of that country. His father was Joseph Roderick, and his mother was Jocintha (Roderick) Roderick, and both were natives of Madeira. Joseph Roderick was a carpenter and contractor before coming to America, but when he located in Springfield, in 1850, he became interested in the iron industry, and was connected with it for thirty-four years.

John C. Roderick was associated with his father in several enterprises in Springfield, even before enlisting, when twenty years old, in the Union Army, in 1816. He served faithfully and well, making a record as a soldier of which his family is justly proud. Mr. Roderick was a carpenter by trade, but also operated a grocery for some years, becoming successful in all his ventures. He was a Woodman, belonging to Springfield Lodge No. 114. A Republican, he took an active part in party life. The Presbyterian Church held his membership and he died in its faith.

Mr. Roderick was married in Springfield, December 24, 1869, to Mary Sylvester, a native of Madeira, born there in 1852, daughter of John A. and Frances C. (Depotas) Sylvester. Mr. and Mrs. Roderick had children as follows: Albert, born in March, 1871, is married and resides in St. Louis; Eva, born August 15, 1873, resides with her mother in Springfield; Joseph A., born in 1875, married and lives in St. Louis; Elmer V., born 1885 and Charles O., born March 26, 1888.

During his long and useful life Mr. Roderick made many friends, and when he was taken away, April 21, 1905, his loss was deeply felt and the bereaved family had the universal sympathy of a wide circle of those who knew and appreciated him. While he was prominent politically, he never sought public office, preferring to exert his influence as a private citizen. Faithful in his church observances, he tried to do his full duty and live up to his beliefs, and no man stood higher in the estimation of his neighbors and business associates.