Michael F. Zens Biography



As published in
"The City of Kenosha and Kenosha County Wisconsin: A Record of Settlement, Organization, Progress and Achievement"
by Frank H. Lyman Vol. 2, The S. J. Clarke Publishing Co., Chicago, 1916.



Michael F. Zens, who since 1908 has occupied the position of assistant postmaster in Kenosha, his native city, was born February 24, 1877, a son of Albert and Henrina (Angenendt) Zens, both of whom were natives of Germany. On coming to Kenosha the father turned his attention to general merchandising and was thus actively identified with the commercial interests of the city for a considerable period. He also took an active part in public affairs, serving for several years as Alderman, during which period he exercised his official prerogatives in support of many progressive public measures. To him and his wife were born ten children, two of whom have passed away. The parents were members of St. George's Catholic church and died in that faith.

Michael F. Zens supplemented his public school training by a year's study in the College of Commerce and then entered the printing business in the employ of John A. Killeen on the Kenosha Union. He afterward became connected with the Telegraph Courier and set the type for the first issue of that paper. He afterward ran a job printing office of his own until 1908, when he was appointed assistant postmaster of Kenosha, and has since occupied that position, covering a period of eight years.

On the 29th of May, 1901 Mr. Zens was married to Miss Helen A. Wade of this city, a daughter of George A. and Susan Wade. They have become parents of seven children, one of whom has now passed away, while those who survive are: Louise, Frances, Virgil, Callista, Marcella, and LaVerne.

Mr. and Mrs. Zens are members of St. George's Catholic Church and Mr. Zens is identified with the Catholic Order of Foresters, the Knights of Columbus, the Elks and the Equitable Fraternal Union, being Treasurer of the last named. His political allegiance is given to the Republican party and he is one of the active workers in its ranks. He served for four years as Secretary of the county committee and does everything in his power to promote the growth and secure the success of Republican principles. His nature, social and genial, has won him many friends and gained him wide popularity.

Typed by: Michelle Laycock