John Debus

JOHN DEBUS is one of the successful men in Wyandotte county. His career has been varied, but he has finally found the occupation which suits him and for which he is admirably suited, that of superintendent of Mount Hope Cemetery. A man of his abilities could not fail to make a success of anything he undertook, and he is well liked in his present position, being always courteous, kind and considerate.

He was born in Wyandotte county, Kansas, February 22, 1870. His father was George Debus, who was born in Germany in 1820 and died in 1903. His mother's maiden name was Gertrude Rheinhart, who still resides in Wyandotte township.

John was brought up in Wyandotte county on his father's farm. As soon as he was old enough he attended the public schools and at the same time worked for his father on the farm. After he had left school he worked in Armour's packing plant for fifteen years. It is needless to that he did good and efficient service, or he would not have remained so so[sic] long in their employ. After he left Armour he was assistant foreman in Morris' sausage plant for one year. In 1909 he was appointed superintendent of the Mount Hope Cemetery, where he has done excellent work, giving his best attention to all who need his assistance and keeping the grounds up in fine shape.

On June 5, 1896, he married Emma Brechbuell, who was a native of Switzerland. When she was only two years old she came to America from her little home among the mountains. Her father is dead but her mother is still living. Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Debus, Irene, Harold and Juanita. They are all attending school, Irene being in the high school while the two younger ones are in the grade school.

Mr. Debus belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America fraternal order. He is a Democrat, having served his party and the township at the same time in the capacity of overseer, a position which he held for one year. Although of German descent, there is no one who is a more loyal American than he is. He stands prepared to do anything for the good of his party and for the good of the country.