Among the younger agriculturists of Lee county who make a success of their vocation is John A. Reitz, who operates his father's extensive holdings, located on section 34, Ashton township. He was born on this farm February 21, 1886, a son of Henry and Mollie (Ventler) Reitz, natives of Germany, of whom more extended mention is made in another part of this history. John Reitz has spent his entire life upon the farm which he now manages, renting the same from his father. He had the advantages of a fair education, having attended high school for some time. He engages in general farming and, being progressive and modern in his ideas, has achieved gratifying results along that line.

On December 21, 1910, Mr. Reitz married Miss Elizabeth Nass, a daughter of John and Augusta (Hannemann) Nass. Miss Nass was born in Bradford township. Her parents were natives of Germany, coming to America in the '50s, and the father is still living in Ashton, Illinois. The mother died in 1894 and was laid to rest in the Bradford cemetery.

Mr. and Mrs. Nass became the parents of eight children, of whom six are living. To Mr. and Mrs. Reitz was born a daughter. Myrtle Emma, on October 18, 1912.

History of Lee County - Frank E. Stevens 1914