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| OWEN SHANTZ, farmer, sec. 26, Wheatland Tp., was born in Ontario, Can., near the city of Guelph, Jan. 27, 1850. His parents, Isaac Y. and Catherine (Clemence) Shantz, were natives of Pennsylvania. Mr. Shantz received a fair education in the common schools of his native province, and when 20 years old, Feb. 27, 1870, was married to Sarah, daughter of George and Nancy Shoemaker, natives of Pennsylvania and of German descent. The year following his marriage, Mr. Shantz resided with his father, moving upon a farm in the vicinity at the expiration of that time. Meanwhile he came to Mecosta County and bought the farm on which he now resides, and where he located in 1880. Nearly one half of this is now improved. Mr. Shantz is a progressive farmer, and is making rapid progress in putting his place into the best possible condition for agricultural purposes. Although his residence in the ocunty has been brief, his persistent efforts to advance its place and position have made known his value to the community to which he belongs, and he is securing a firm hold upon the respect and consideration of all. Mr. and Mrs. Shantz have five children, born as follows: Addison M., May 22, 1871; Nancy, Feb. 22, 1873; Ellen, Jan. 11, 1877; George, Nov. 2, 1879; Lizzie, Nov. 30, 1882. The parents are members of the old Mennonite Church. Mr. Shantz is a Republican in politics, and is present Assessor, an office he has held for several terms. |