“Naish” McKinnon, Colorful Bemidji Resident Dies at His Home Here.
Ignatius (Naish) McKinnon, retired pioneer, who has watched the steady growth of Bemidji since the turn of the century, died at his home on Woodland avenue on May 7, 1942. He was 68.
A man who pioneered in this community 42 years ago when the Lumberjack was king, Mr. McKinnon through his prominence in civic affairs and through his sincere interest in the welfare of the community, has seen many improvements made in this vicinity.
Not only was he able to note the improvements as they came, but he was able to take an active part in the construction through the knowledge, experience and ability as a road contractor.
In the early years, he was often mentioned in the newspaper because of his ownership of one of Bemidji’s saloons, the 209 Saloon on Minnesota Avenue.
A native of northern Minnesota, he was born in Detroit Lakes, Jan 22, 1874. He came to this territory when 26 years old and after working here for over 30 years, he retired. He had been in ill health for nearly two years before his death. Son of Duncan and Margaret McKinnon, both born in Canada. Brother to Alexander, Benjamin, Daniel, William R., and Archer McKinnon.
He was a member of the BPOE #1052. of Bemidji.
Left to mourn his death are his widow, Mrs. Bertha McKinnon, two daughters, Catherine Dilworth of Holler and Mrs. Mabel Olson of Duluth, 16 grandchildren, six great grandchildren, two brothers, Benjamin of Bemidji and Archie of Detroit, Michigan, and many other relatives and friends. (Bemidji Daily Pioneer, May 7, 1942)
Married to Bertha Durand in 1910.