Jacob Kissel
Jacob Kissel, one of the leading merchants of Lima, in the line of staple and fancy groceries and choice meats, with store located at Nos. 945-947 West High street, was born in Defiance County, Ohio, in 1854, and is a son of the late Jacob Kissel, who was identified with the business interests of Bryan, Ohio, for many years.
Our subject was reared at Bryan, Ohio, and after he completed his education learned the butcher's business. In 1879 he went West and spent four years at Leadville, Colorado, where he engaged in mining and was also interested in a meat business. In 1883 he returned to Bryan for a short season and then came to Lima, where he entered the employ of a Mr. Brunt, in the meat business. Later, in association with J. C. Schwartz, he purchased the business, and for six years it was conducted under the firm name of Kessel & Schwartz, when the latter partner retired from the firm and Mr. Kissel continued alone until 1900. For several years he remained practically out of business, but resumed in 1905, establishing his present grocery and meat market. By his long experience he has become well acquainted with the demands of the public, and he carries a very complete and well-assorted stock, catering to the best trade of the neighborhood.
In 1886 Mr. Kissel was married to Kate Koch, who died in 1902, leaving four children, namely: Lenore, William, Florence and Mabel, all students in the Lima schools. The family belongs to the German Reformed Church. Mr. Kissel is a member of the Royal Arcanum and the Elks.