YOUR SILENT NEIGHBORS, Charles M. Kuster, Collins Company Workman
by David K. Leff
Town Poet Laureate and Deputy Town Historian

A Collinsville native, Charles M. Kuster (1883-1918) attended local schools and lived here his whole life.  Upon finishing his education, he was employed in the knife handling department of the Collins Company, and became a pump operator in the company fire department. 

Kuster joined the local unit of the Improved Order of Red Men (I.O.R.M.), a fraternal organization, and was a member of St. Patrick Church’s Holy Name Society. 

He died at his home on West High Street (now, Dunne Avenue).  Survived by his brother, Reverend Francis J. Kuster of Bristol, his parents had already died.  The funeral was held at St. Patrick’s Church. 

Charles M. Kuster is buried in Calvary Cemetery, Collinsville. 

“Your Silent Neighbors” introduces readers to people out of Canton’s past.  It will appear on or about first and fifteenth of each month.  Readers are encouraged to visit these gravesites and pay their respects to the people who have helped make our community what it is today.  Any suggestions, questions, or corrections are welcome and should be addressed to Deputy Town Historian David K. Leff at onktaadn@comcast.net.