Death of J. J. Fallon
(Grandville Avenue Record, January 26, 1917 – Pg. 8)

One of the best tributes that can be paid the late alderman, J. J. Fallon, is that he kept faith with his constituents, that he has ended a life of long service, that he had friends, no enemies, speaking ill of no one. Mr. Fallon was only sick a few days although had complained of not feeling well at times for two years. He was urged by his physician to take a rest, but he preferred an active life.

Politically he was allied with the Democrats. In 1904 he was elected alderman. In 1911 he became president of the council and held that position for one year; in 1913 he was chairman of the county board of supervisors.

As chairman of the building committee of the supervisors, he saw the completion of the new hospital at the county infirmary, and only recently, after many years of labor, he secured a piece of ground adjoining the city market as a playground for the children of his ward. In his honor the recreation center was named Fallon park.

Mr. Fallon was always interested in athletics and was a lifelong member of the Olympic club. He was largely instrumental in the establishment of Island park, and for several years was the instructor in boxing and wrestling at the Y. M. C. A. building.

In fraternal circles, Mr. Fallon was prominent. He held a life membership in Grand Rapids lodge No. 48, B. P. O. E; was affiliated with division No. 1, Ancient Order of Hibernians, and was also a member of Harmony lodge.

Mr. Fallon was one of the most genial and obliging members who ever occupied a seat in the council chamber, and was one of Grand Rapids’ most popular citizens.

November 20, 1912, Mr. Fallon was married to Miss Ann L. Ryan, of Grand Rapids, who survives him. Surviving is one sister, Mrs. G. L. Stickel, of Rochester, N. Y.; a nephew Leo Sanders, of this city, a niece, Miss Lucile Sanders, of Rochester, N. Y.
Funeral services were held at 9 o’clock Wednesday morning from St. Andrews’ church.

Transcriber: ES
Created: 4 April 2007
URL: http://kent.migenweb.net/obituaries/local/fallonJJ.html