Bert U. Shellhaas, whose identification with the farming interests of Miami county is that of a practical, intelligent and dependable farmer, was born in his home township of Newton, in 1882, a son of Michael and Charlotte (Ullery) Shellhaas. The parents were agricultural people who passed their entire lives in this county where they were the owners of a good Newton township farm and where they were held in the highest regard. Among their grand-children, William and Joseph Shellhaas were soldiers in the United States Army during the World war, both seeing overseas service. Bert U. Shellhaas secured his education in the district schools and was reared on the home farm. He has always devoted himself to farming and has made a gratifying success of his efforts, his property comparing favorably with others in the township and his success having been won on merit. He joined other loyal and patriotic citizens in supporting the various movements made necessary by the demands of war, and has also been a co-worker in the various enterprises that have made for civic advancement. Mr. SHELLHAAS married Martha, daughter of William and Rebecca Folkerth, farming people of Montgomery county. Mrs. Katherine (Folkerth) Good, a sister of Mrs. Shellhaas, had a son in the army during the World war. Mr. and Mrs. Shellhaas have three children: Mark Allen, Mahlon F., and Martha Jane. They belong to the church of the Brethren. Politically he is a Republican.