Seif Township, Clark Co., WI

Seif Township was created November 17, 1900 and named for Frederick J. Seif who was born in Oshkosh, WI., July 9, 1855. In 1875, he married Miss Mary Wiesner at Dale, WI. That same year they drove an ox team to Clark County, to begin a pioneer life on 80 acres of land they had purchased in the town of Sherwood. They lived there until moving to this township which today bears his name. Having helped with its initial organization, forty-four year old Frederick Seif was then elected town chairman when the first town meeting was held, in April of 1901. In 1906, Fred and Mary moved into a fine new residence on Grand Avenue in Neillsville, WI and left the care of their farm to their son, John.

Shortly after moving to Neillsville, Mr. Seif opened a farm implement business with L. H. Howard. Fred Stelloh bought out Mr. Howard’s interest and after some time Mr. Seif's sons, Charles and Fred Jr. took over the entire business which was then known as, F. J. Seif & Sons.

Fred's hard work and diligence gained the respect of his family, friends and neighbors and he was elected as an alderman. Having preformed those duties faithfully, he then served four years as mayor of Neillsville. He was a man of good judgment, honest in private and public business, always ready to be of service to those about him. It would be well indeed with the world if all men had given as honest, faithful service in life as did Mr. Seif.

In 1926, during the spring of his seventy first year, Frederick J. Seif underwent a severe surgical operation at St. Joseph's Hospital in Marshfield, WI. He never fully rallied afterward and died Monday afternoon, March 8th, at about 4 o'clock. His life had ended before he was able return to his home and family. He was buried at Neillsville, WI City Cemetery. On October 4, 1935, Mary was laid to rest beside him.