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| Father Henry W. Grimme, priest in charge of the parish of St. Marys at Big Rapids, was born at Hanover, Germany, July 3, 1849. He is the son of Joseph and Margaret Grimme, and when 16 years of age accompanied his parent to the United States. His early education was obtained in his native land, and on his arrival in this country he was sent to Mount St. Mary’s Seminary, at Cincinnati, to prepare for his vocation, the priesthood. After ten years’ arduous application to his studies, he was placed in charge of the Roman Catholic Church at Wyandotte, Mich., where he officiated three years and three months he then went to Otisco, Ionia Co., and after a brief tarry there, in December 1880, he came to Big Rapids, and entered upon the duties of his station here. The society includes the members of 150 families, and has doubled since the beginning of his labors as parish priest. His mission stations are at Cedar Springs, Morley, Ensley, Croton, Freemont Center, Newaygo, Hisperia, White Cloud, Reed City, Evart, etc. He is popular among his people, and liked by the community. Attached to the parish building is the Convent of the Sister of Mercy, including about 15 sisters. The school belonging to their quarters was discontinued for a while, owing to the destruction of the convent by fire, but has since been reopened in connection with the Church. |