William B. McMinn, who is engaged in the undertaking business in Pueblo, his native city, was born on the 26th of August, 1887, a son of John H. and Elizabeth (Mallen) McMinn. The family had long been represented in the west and removed from Cheyenne, Wyoming, to Pueblo, where they took up their abode about forty years ago, when this was a wild and largely undeveloped section of the state. The father engaged in the furniture business for a long period and was prominent in the commercial circles of his adopted city. He was also active in politics and filled the office of justice of the peace, in which position he rendered decisions that were strictly fair and impartial. When he passed away in 1908 his death was the occasion of deep and widespread regret because of the sterling worth of his character and his valuable contributions to the improvement and up-building of the section in which he lived. His widow still survives him and is yet a resident of Pueblo.

William B. McMinn was educated in the public schools of Pueblo, pursuing a course in the Central high school, and after his textbooks were put aside turned his attention to railroad work, becoming connected with the Denver & Rio Grande in the superintendent's office. He there remained from 1903 until 1911, steadily working his way upward in that connection. He was afterward with the firm of McMahon & Company for a year and a half and then spent five years in the employ of the United Undertakers. In 1916 he established business on his own account and has a splendidly equipped undertaking establishment. He has an auto hearse and motor cars and he employs the most improved and scientific methods in the care of the dead. He has in his service two men and one lady attendant and he has developed a business of substantial proportions.

On the 10th of November, 1909, Mr. McMinn was united in marriage to Miss Mabel G. Prendergast, of Pueblo, who is a representative of one of the old and honored pioneer families of this section of the state. They now have two children, Eileen and William.

The religious faith of the family is that of the Catholic church and Mr. McMinn is a third degree member of the Knights of Columbus. He also belongs to Pueblo Lodge, No. 90, B. P. O. E., is president of the Ancient Order of Hibernians of Pueblo and a member of the Court of Honor. He is also identified with the Praetorians and with the Commercial Club and he is much interested in the development and progress of the state as a public-spirited citizen.

Source: Stone, Wilbur Fiske, History of Colorado, volume III.  Chicago: The S. J. Clarke Publishing Company, 1918.

Contributed by Joy Fisher (Dec08)