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JOSEPH J. GROSS

Some of the most progressive of the business men of Rock Island belong to the younger generation, to whose enthusiasm and energetic efforts the city owes much of its present enviable condition. One of those who can always be counted upon for solid support in civic matters, is Joseph J. Gross. proprietor of a large plumbing and heating business his own industry has built up.

He was born at the family homestead on Sixth avenue, between Fourteenth and Fifteenth streets, this city, March 30, 1871, being a son of Aloysius M. and Matilda (Schuttz) Gross. The father was born in Alsace Lorraine. and his father brought him to America when he was but five years old, locating first at LeClaire, but later removal was made to Rock Island. Aloysius Gross was educated in a German school, held in an old barn, and as he grew old enough, he learned tin and coppersmithing, becoming a sheet metal worker. Later he embarked in business for himself, thus continuing until 1898, when he mored to Galveston, Tex., from which he makes trips to various parts of the country.

His wife still resides in Rock Island. Their children were: Joseph J. George, of Davenport, Iowa ; Emma, Mrs. Charles Emke, of Rock Island; Lena, Mrs. E. Scheible, of Rock Island; Louis. of Rock Island; Philip, also of Rock Island; and Tillie, wife of Ed Carlson, who also lives in Rock Island.

Joseph J. Gross began attending school when eight years old, and pleasantly recalls Miss Re fine, Miss Wilson and Miss Olson as some of his teachers. When seventeen years old, he left school. He had already embarked in a little business of his own, raising rabbits, pigeons, chickens and similar pets, which he sold in the neighborhood and always ambitious and willing to work, he engaged in various lines of endeavor. These included house raising. and rock quarry ing and he slated the roof of the Young Men's Christian Association building. When nineteen. be began learning the trade of plumbing and heating. continuing to work for others until 1908, when he established his present business. He has also built and sold several houses, and owns his comfortable home at No. 3113 Tenth avenue.

Mr. Cross was married in this city, May 19, 1894, to Miss Frony Gumber, daughter of Peter and Kate Gumber of Rock Island. One of the reasons for Mr. Gross' success is that he has never hesitated to do whatever lay to his hand. He also kept looking for chances to better him self, and when opportunity arrived, was able to grasp it. While building up his own fortunes, he has also given due attention to public matters.

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