GEO. A. ROOF, dealer in boots and shoes, at Big Rapids, was born at Plessis, Jefferson Co., N.Y., Sept. 19, 1852. His parents Daniel and Elizabeth (Shaver) Roof, came to Big Rapids in August, 1871. Mr. Roof received his business training under the personal supervision of his father, who was a boot and shoe dealer and manufacturer in Jefferson County, and founded the same business at Big Rapids. He built the structure on Michigan Avenue, now occupied by T. D. Mulbury. In July, 1873, Mr. Roof entered into partnership with his father, an association which proved successful, as their business included a considerable jobbing tade. Jan. 1, 1879, he became sole owner by purchasing his father's interest. The latter died Feb. 13, 1880. In June, 1883, Mr. Roof moved the building he occupied to Maple street, and then proceeded to the erection of the "Roof Block," one of the finest in the city. It is built of brick, 50 x 100 feet in size, with three stories above the basement.
Mr. Roof was married at Ottawa Can., Jan. 12, 1874, to Laura McLaughlin, who died May 10, 1875, leaving an infant, Charlie D., born at Big Rapids, Arpril 28, 1875. Mr. Roof entered into a second matrimonial alliance Nov. 20, 1876, with Mattie A., daughter of Jonas and Mary A. Crouse, who was born Nov. 20, 1857. They have two sons, J. Fred, born at Big Rapids, August 26, 1881, and an infant not yet named. Mr. Roof is a member of the Royal Arcanum, Council, No. 174. He owns a fine residence, which he built in 1882.
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