The Chicago Herald, 6 February 1891
(Illinois)

OBITUARY RECORD
John Spry
John Spry, one of Chicago’s pioneer lumbermen, died last night at his home, 481 West Monroe street, aged sixty-three. Four weeks ago Mr. Spry was taken with a severe cold, which developed into pneumonia. A complication of diseases resulted, but the immediate cause of his death was blood poisoning. He had been unconscious since Sunday, and at 9 o’clock last evening breathed his last. Deceased was born in Cornwall, England, Aug. 13, 1828. When only fifteen years old he left home and came to this city, where he had lived ever since. His first employment in Chicago was in Andrew Smith’s lumber yard. He remained with Mr Smith for several years, and in 1834 entered the employ of F. B Gardner. In 1868? the firm of F. B. Gardner Lumber Company was formed, Mr. Spry being a member. Six years later the Gardner & Spry Lumber Company was organized and for thirteen years the business was continued under that name. Five years ago Mr. Spry decided to carry on the trade alone, and from then until his death he was president of the John Spry Lumber Company. The company did an immense business, 50,000 feet of lumber being handled in the past year. Mr. Spry was collector for the West town in 1840?. Three years ago he was elected county commissioner on what was known as the reform ticket. Those were the only two political offices he ever held. He was one of the oldest members of the board of trade, and was also a member of the La Salle and Illinois clubs. In 1855 Mr Spry was married to Miss Ellen Hirst. His wife and seven children survive him. The names of his children are John C., S. A., George E., Walter P., Mrs. James Harvey and Misses Maud and Nellie. Mr Spry was a regular attendant of the Second Baptist Church. No arrangements have been made for the funeral, but it will probably be held Sunday.

Contributed by Bob Bolitho