Dayton Daily Journal - May 26, 1869
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In Memoriam
John Grove Stutsman, an old citizen of Dayton, died at his residence on First street, east of St. Clair, on Tuesday morning, May 25th.Mr. Stutsman was born on the 4th day of June, 1816, in a house built by his father, Daniel Stutsman, on the lot where the residence of Henry S. Fowler now stands. His father died of cholera in the year 1832, leaving a wife and several children; and Grove--the only son--at the age of sixteen years determined to be the protector of his family in the stead of his father. Those who know him best, say that from that time, he began to grow prematurely old. He determined to at once prepare himself for active life, and he started to learn the gunsmith business with Mr. Wm. Brown. After serving the usual term of apprentiship, Mr. Stutsman established himself in business, in a shop on First street, near where the Stutsman homestead now stands. And he carried on the gunsmith business with success for a great many years, and until the manufacture of gas in this city, induced him to change his base, and he established a gas-fitting shop, which he managed--except for a brief period--until about a year ago, when he engaged with Leach & Blakesley, in the manufacture and sale of varnish.
Mr. Stutsman was an estimable gentleman, possessed of many admirable qualities, of more than ordinary ability, and he had many very excellent ideas about public improvements, which he was active and persistent in carrying out. He was for a number of years a member of Council, and during the time he was instrumental in having the Levee fixed up; and he superintended the planting of trees along the line of our water defenses. Mr. Stutsman also superintended the planting of trees in the Park; and in the First District School yards, and in the yard of the Central High School. He also first advocated the stone-arch bridges across the canal, and he superintended the building of the first stone bridge. He was elected one of the first members of the Board of Education, after it was established, and served on the Board a number of terms. He was an active, old-time fireman, and one of the first members of the old Independent Engine Company, and was President of the Company for a number of years. He joined the Independent Order of Odd Fellows December 26, 1838, and remained an acceptable member up to the time of his death; and he was always foremost in good works.
Mr. Stutsman was married to Miss Lida J. Soloman, in the month of October, 1862, but she lived only about fifteen months. He was of genial disposition and social habits, and had many warm friends. His health had been poor for several months, and towards the last he suffered severely, gradually wearing away in death. His memory will be warmly cherished by a large circle of relatives and friends. A notice of the funeral will be found elsewhere.
Obituary - Dayton Daily Journal, May 26, 1869
Funeral this Thursday afternoon, at 2 o'clock, from the family residence, on First street, near St. Clair. Services by Rev. Mr. Colby. Interment, Woodland Cemetery. Friends of the family are invited to attend.