website watertownhistory.org
ebook History of Watertown, Wisconsin
Sophia Ryan
1875 - 1948
Mrs. Sophia Ryan, former Watertown
business woman, died
Mrs. Ryan was born in Watertown, a
daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ferdinand Baur and had always made her home here. She
was married to John T. Ryan in St. Henry's Catholic Church on
Mrs. Ryan operated a book store for many
years and also dealt in religious articles and church goods. She continued the business after her
husband's death. At one time they were located in the old Masonic temple
building and from there she operated in various downtown locations over the
years that followed.
Her husband had been a funeral director
and she assisted in that business for many years.
State C. K. Director
Mrs. Ryan was a member of St. Henry's
Church. She was a member of Branch 120, Catholic Knights of Wisconsin and held
the office of secretary for many years. She had also served continuous terms as
a state director of the Catholic Knights and was one of the persons
instrumental in building up the Watertown branch to the largest in the state.
She also played a prominent part in the organization here of the Catholic
Knight Crusaders, a junior organization of the order.
Mrs. Ryan also held membership in the
Christian Mothers and the Rosary confraternities of St. Henry’s Parish. She was
active in many church affairs.
The Rev. A. H. Foltz officiated and
interment was in St. Henry's
Cemetery.
SURVIVORS:
Sister Mrs. John Lange, Watertown
Sister Mrs. Lena Burns, St. Louis, Mo.