Mrs. Katherine Proft died at 8:15 o'clock last evening of bronichal pneumonia and old age after six weeks illness.  Death occurred at the home of her son Paul Proft 108 third and at her bedside were Mr. and Mrs. Paul Proft, Mr.,  Mrs. William Proft and Joseph Proft.

The deceased was born in Bohemia Nov 1, 1842 and in her native country was twice married, the first time to John Burgan, with whom she had one child, Anton Burgan, now of Green Bay.  Her first husband died eleven years following their marriage and in 1875, she was united in marriage to Frank Proft, who died five years ago.  Her second husband was a widower and had ten children.

Five of the latter children survive, Joseph and Paul Proft of Merrill, August Proft and Mrs. Bartel Hoffner of Bessemer, Michigan.  Anna? Proft of Bohemia.  The five deceased step-sons are Frank, Carl, Wenzel, Anton and Adolph.  With her second husband she had two children, William of Athens, Wis and Emma, now Mrs. William Hinzman of Wabeno, Wis.

The family came to Athens in 1881, that place being a wilderness at the time and known as Black Creek Falls.  Seven years ago the parents came to Merrill to make their home.

The funeral services will be held at 10 o'clock Tuesday morning at St. Francis Xavier church, the Rev. Father M.A. Prock to officiate.  Burial will be at the Merrill cemetery.

Still looking for any information about Katherine's deceased stepson Carl.  No death record could be located for him in Wisconsin.