This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Surnames: Reardon Classification: Biography Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/rw/wg.2ADE/1454 Message Board Post: REARDON, James (deceased) - The influence of a good man does not cease with his passing from this earth, for it lives on in the lives of his children and the power of his works while alive. To those left behind, the loss is always a heavy one, but even in dying a man may set such an example as to influence others for everlasting good. The late James Reardon, formerly of Morris, Ill., was one of the substantial men of Grundy County. He was born in Tipperary, Ireland, May 27, 1835, and came to the United States with an uncle in young manhood. At first he was in the State of Indiana for a short period, then came to Grundy County which continued to be his home until death claimed him, June 11, 1907. For some years he conducted a blacksmithing and wagon making establishment, but his health failing he disposed of his interests and lived retired during his latter years. By his first marriage, James Reardon had the following children: Cornelius, who is of Morris; Maggie, who is Mrs. James Redmond of Kansas City, Mo.; Mary, who is Mrs. Otto Ludwig of Morris; Lizzie, who is Mrs. Dr. T. A. Bray of El Paso, Tex.; and one who died in infancy. After the death of his first wife, Mr. Reardon married (second) on November 26, 1885, Mary Kenrick, born in Erienna Township, a daughter of Patrick and Ellen (O’Brien) Kenrick, natives of Ireland, but early settlers of Erienna Township. Patrick Kenrick died many years ago, but his widow survived until 1884. By his second marriage, James Reardon had two children: Edna, who is Mrs. Thomas G. Connor, of Morris; and Nettie, who is at home. The Catholic Church held Mr. Reardon’s membership, he being connected with Emaculate Conception parish. Politically he was a Democrat, but he never sought public office. At one time he was very prominent in the A. O. H., and at all times enjoyed the full confid! ence of all with whom he was associated. Source: History of Grundy County, Illinois, 1914, page 890