Ferd Mark: 1889 – 1990
Ferd Mark was born in Osnaburg Twp., and his family goes back to the early settlers. His Mother’s parents, the Brechbills came to the township from Pennsylvania in 1856. His father’s parents came from Pennsylvania also, in 1828. and lived in a log house on Neiman’s Road.
Ferd had a long, full and varied life. He was with Stark Ceramics for 45 years and was one of the four original employees in 1910 when it was known as Osnaburg Brick Co., and was involved in most of the phases of the development of Stark Ceramics and left for three years to build Shady Hollow Country Club and Golf Course.
Ferd was an interim Mayor and then a Mayor for 2 years in 1960-1961.
Ferd taught Sunday School at St. Paul’s UCC for 38 years and served on the church board for 20 years. He was a Board of Education member for 20 years and a member of the State Council Junior Order for 45 years and other organizations also.
He developed Lincoln Homes Sites in East Canton which now 57 homes and is still involved in building development.
He and wife Mary had 3 children, Doris, Joanne, and Merlin James. They also have nine grandchildren.
Ferd was one of the first and most highly regarded employees of Stark Ceramics of East Canton who rendered constant and faithful service until his retirement in 1959.
After the death of his first wife, he remarried and was living in Massillon, and enjoyed his hobby of traveling.
Some of the history which was compiled is from the excellent memory of Mr. Mark and the committee was fortunate to be able to use this accurate source.
Ferd is buried along with Mary who passed in 1973, at Forest Hill Cemetery.
Source: Osnaburg Twp. History 1804 – 1976
Osnaburg Historical Society 