Prominent Local Attorney Found Dead This Morning
Michael E. Stroup, prominent local attorney, was found dead shortly before seven o’clock this morning [29 October 1931], the victim of carbon monoxide poisoning. His age was 58 years, 2 months and 12 days.
When he could not be found in his home, his daughter-in-law, Mrs. Nathan W. Stroup went to his law office to the rear of the residence, and heard the motor of his automobile running in the garage which adjoins the office. She notified Dr. R. E. Barto, who found Mr. Stroup lying in his automobile. The physician pronounced him dead.
Mr. Stroup was the son of Dr. N. W. Stroup and Sally [Sauser] Stroup and was born in Elizabethville, August 16, 1873. He lived in this community the greater part of his life.
He was a graduate of Franklin and Marshall College, Lancaster, where he took a prominent part in athletics and starred on the football team. About 1896 he studied law in the Stranahan Law Office at Harrisburg and was later admitted to the Dauphin County Bar.
His ability was recognized when he received the post of Assistant District Attorney of Dauphin County, which success soon after, gained for him eight years of service as District Attorney. He also served two terms as State Legislator.
Stepping out of public office, he had since been recognized as one of the most able barristers, and during the term of Governor John Fischer, had conferred upon him the office of State Deputy Attorney General.
He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Blanche [Spahr] Stroup, and only son, Nathan Weller Stroup, and a grandson, Nathan Weller Stroup III.
Although George F. Buffington, funeral director, town, was given charge of the body, funeral arrangements had not been completed at the time of going to press.
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Note: According to the death certificate, “death was attributed to inhalation of carbon monoxide gas fumes generated by the motor of the Hudson car, which was running when the body was found lying in the back seat – probably suicide.”
From the Elizabethville Echo, 29 October 1931.
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