The Passing of Another Veteran

Hugh Rossman Was One of Grand Ledge’s Earliest Merchants

Hugh Rossman was born in Madison, Lake County, Ohio, February 2, 1839, and passed away at his home in this city June 15, 1911.

At the beginning of the war he enlisted in the 14th Independent Light  Artillery.  About 1867 he came to grand ledge and learned the harness making trade with his brother-in-law, later going into the same business for himself and remained until fire destroyed this building on South Bridge St. about 15 years ago and ill health forced him to retire. At this time the Rossman block was erected in place of the wooden structure that burned, and later was sold to T. B. Robinson and is now occupied by the Economy Clothing Company.  

November 18, 1869, he was united in marriage to Miss Ruth Babcock of this city.

Deceased was one of a family of 15 children, those surviving being Mrs. Ruth Allen and William Rossman of this city and Harrison Rossman of California, who, with the bereaved widow deeply feel their loss.

Deceased was a life member of the Masonic order, which organization attended the funeral in a body, taking charge of the services at the grave.

Funeral services were held at the home Sunday afternoon, conducted by Rev. Arthur Trott of Portland, assisted by Rev. C. E. Pollok of the M. E. Church of this city. Internment in Oakwood.

Mr. Rossman was a man of cheerful disposition, always enthusiastic over any improvement for the city’s welfare and will be remembered by all for his witty jokes and pleasant smiles before ill health overtook him; And although a great sufferer for several years he was always patient and bore his suffering with fortitude.

Those from a distance who attended the last rights were Mr. and Mrs. M. McMullen of Sheridan, Mr. and Mrs. J. E. McMullen and little daughters and Miss Lena McMullen of Detroit, Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Hankins of Elsie, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Rossman of Potterville and Roy Chamberlain of Lansing.