John Vertin

Third Bishop of Marquette, U.S.A., b. at Doblice, Diocese of Laibach (Carniolia), Austria, 17 July, 1844; d. at Marquette, 26 Feb., 1899. He received his classical education at Rudolfswert, and came to America at the age of nineteen. His pious parents presented him to Bishop Baraga, who, upon adopting him into the diocese, sent him to St. Francis, Wisconsin, where he completed his theological training. On 31 Aug., 1866, he was ordained priest. For twelve years he laboured zealously, displaying great administrative ability. Upon the resignation of Bishop Mrak, Leo XIII elevated him to the episcopate, and he was consecrated at Negaunee, Michigan, 14 Sept., 1879. The greatness of his mind and heart are reflected in the management of his diocese and in untold charities.

REZEK, History of the Diocese of Sault Ste Marie and Marquette (Houghton, Michigan, 1906); Diocesan Archives (Marquette).

Antoine Ivan Rezek.