Willis Ray Mason (Biography)

[genealogynut]

Taken from Illustriana Kansas, page 741

Willis Ray Mason, registered pharmacist, was born at Howard, Kansas, October 2, 1901, son of Lewis Frederick and Nora Katherine (Keller) Mason. The father was born in Howard on July 22, 1873, and is a prominent farmer and stockman descended from successful pioneer settlers in Kansas and Iowa.  Nora Katherine Keller was born in Bourbon County, Indiana, August 17, 1875, of German ancestry.  Her father wa a veteran of the Civil War, having served with the Union Army.  Her parents were born in Germany.

In 1916 Mr. Mason was graduated from the Howard public schools and in 1920 from Howard High School.  His early life was spent in a rural community and after completing his high school training he started in the drug business in the employ of William E. Allen at Howard, Kansas, continuing until 1924.  After this he attended Kansas University, and on May 7, 1926, passed the state board examination.  Since that time he has been engaged in the retail drug business independently at Howard. A Democrat, he has served on the city council at Howard.

Active in civic affairs and interested in local business conditions, he is a member of the Chamber of Commerce, the Masons, the Red Cross, and the Salvation Army.  He is active in Golf Club activities, and is an ardent golfer, fisher and motorist.  His hobbies are reading and experimental work.  (Photograph in Album)

Residence:  Howard.