Docter, Christian William

C. W. Docter, 78 year old retired businessman, died suddenly on Sunday afternoon at his home on S. Main St. He had been in failing health for some time, and was confined to his bed for the past ten days.

Born in Kenosha on Sept. 30, 1868, Mr. Docter entered the photography business at the age of 18. In 1889 he came to this city to establish the business he conducted for half a century. On Oct. 4, 1939 he held open house to celebrate his jubilee as a photographer. His display of photographs portrayed the progress of Mayville.

Mr. Docter was also a pioneer in the moving picture business. He purchased the old Mojestka theatre, which he later named the May theatre, and conducted the business for many years before turning it over to his daughter and son in law, Mr. and Mrs. Merton Miller. Mr. Docter was also interested in other local enterprises, and served as a member of the school board for many years.

Several years after he established his business in this city, Mr. Docter was married at Kenosha to Miss Anna Moeller. Following their marriage on May 20, 1890, Mr. and Mrs. Docter established their home in this city. Mrs. Docter preceded her husband in death in 1935.

Surviving are the children, Dr. John Docter, Racine; Dr. R. A. Docter, Mrs. William Blodgett, and Mrs. Merton Miller, all of this city; seven grandchildren, two great grandchildren, and a sister in law, Miss Angela Moeller, of this city.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday afternoon from the Moul Funeral Home, the Rev. Lewis M. Douglass officiating. Burial took place in Graceland cemetery.

Mayville News, October 17, 1946