JOHN K. DeFREES, assistant cashier of the Troy National Bank and city treasurer of Troy, Ohio, was born in this city in 1878, and is a son of L. L. and a grandson of John W. DeFrees. Both father and grandfather of Mr. DeFrees were well known journalists. The grandfather, John W. DeFrees, was the founder, proprietor and editor of the Miami Union, which he conducted for many years, and for a time he served as county auditor of Miami County. The father of Mr. DeFrees early became associated with his father in newspaper work and on the death of John W. DeFrees succeeded to the proprietorship of the Miami Union, which he successfully conducted until ill health compelled him to dispose of his interests.

John K. DeFrees was reared and educated at Troy, and after graduating from the Troy High School he spent two years in the Ohio State University. Shortly after his return to Troy he entered the Troy National Bank as bookkeeper, served later four years as teller and since then has filled the office of assistant cashier. He has ever been an active and earnest citizen and in November, 1907, he was elected city treasurer, the duties of which office he fills with the same carefulness and conservatism that has made him valued in the financial institution with which he has so long been connected.

In June, 1903, Mr. DeFrees was married to Miss Frances P. Breebbill, of Troy, and they have one daughter, Elizabeth. Mr. DeFrees and wife are members of the First Presbyterian Church of Troy. He is a Royal Arch Mason and belongs also to the Troy and the Island Outing clubs.