Birth Name: Donavon M. Frankenreiter

Place of Birth: Downey, California, U.S.

Date of Birth: December 10, 1972

Ethnicity: German, possibly 1/4 Italian and other

Donavon Frankenreiter is an American singer, songwriter, guitarist, and surfer.

Donavon was born in Downey, California, the son of Jeanne Lorraine (Traut) and Martin Ambrose “Marty” Frankenreiter. Donavon has a sister, Tamara.

Donavon’s paternal grandfather was Anthony Merle/Merrill L. Frankenreiter. His parents were Ambrose Martin Frankenreiter (the son of Martin Frankenreiter and Christina Bauer) and Ella Ludwig (the daughter of Herman Heinrich Ludwig and Clara Louisa Gerhardt).

Donavon’s great-great-grandfather Herman was born in Missouri, the son of Caspar Ludwig and Catherine Schreiner, who hailed from Hesse, Germany.

Donavon’s great-great-grandmother Clara was also born in Missouri, the daughter of Julius Gehardt and Mollie Heine, who hailed from Bavaria and Saxony, Germany, respectively.

Donavon’s paternal grandmother was Mary Yanni. “Yanni” can be an Italian surname.

Donavon’s maternal grandmother’s surname is Nestor.

Sources: Obituary of Donavon’s father, Martin Ambrose Frankenreiter  – http://obits.ocregister.com/

Obituary of Donavon’s paternal grandmother, Mary (Yanni) Frankenreiter – http://www.legacy.com/

Certificate of Donavon Frankenreiter – https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:VLSX-7YZ

Genealogies of Donavon’s paternal great-grandmother, Ella (Ludwig) Frankenreiter – http://www.geocities.ws/satees/ludwigs.html

http://www.geocities.ws/satees/gerhards.html#Julius

Photo by Prphotos

Birth Name: Frederick B. Weller

Place of Birth: New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S.

Date of Birth: April 18, 1970

Ethnicity: Italian (maternal grandmother), German (including Alsatian German), English, at least 1/8 Irish

Fred Weller is an American stage, film, and television actor.

Fred was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, the son of Carole (Breithoff) and Francis Weller. Fred’s father is of German, Irish, and English ancestry. Fred’s mother is of half-Italian descent, along with German, Alsatian German, and some Irish roots.

Fred is a cousin of actor Peter Weller (ethnicelebs.com/peter-weller). Fred’s father, Francis, and Peter’s father, Frederick, were siblings.

Fred’s paternal grandfather was Garald Paul Weller. His parents were Frederick Albert Weller (the son of George Perry Weller and Julia Ann Knickerbocker) and Theresa K. Elsner (the daughter of Joseph Elsner and Catherine Fuchs). Theresa was born in Ravensburg, Baden-Württemberg, Germany, to German parents from Bavaria.

Fred’s paternal grandmother was Gladys Mae Willett. Her parents were Bradford Bradley Willard Willett (the son of Hibbard/Herbert Willett and Malvina Hill) and Ella Frances Smith (the daughter of Oswin/Orin Sutton Smith and Sarah Elizabeth Clark). Sarah was from County Donegal, Ireland.

Fred’s maternal grandfather was Peter Patrick Breithoff. His parents were William James Breithoff (the son of Charles Breithoff and Mary McQuirk) and Anna Walch (the daughter of Charles/Carl Walch/Walsch and Louisa Schaad).

Mary born in Ireland, the daughter of William James McQuirk and Honora Ann Gleason. Charles/Carl Walch/Walsch hailed from Dettwiller, Bas-Rhin, Alsace, France, the son of French-born parents Jean Charles (Johannes Carl) Walch/Walsch and Elizabeth (Elisabetha) Lantz/Lanz, who were likely ethnic Alsatian Germans.

Fred’s maternal grandmother was Josephine Manzella (the daughter of Anthony “Tony” Manzella and Francisca). Both Anthony and Francisca were born in Italy.

Sources: Genealogy of Fred’s father, Francis Weller – http://www.bigalke.biz/

Obituary of Fred’s paternal great-grandmother, Theresa K. (Elsner) Weller – https://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=72987693

Obituary of Fred’s uncle (mother’s brother), Peter Breithoff – http://obits.dignitymemorial.com/

Family Tree of Fred’s maternal grandfather, Peter Patrick Breithoff – https://www.ancestry.com/

Genealogy of Fred’s maternal great-great-grandparents, John Charles (Johannes Carl) Walch/Walsch and Elizabeth (Elisabetha) Lantz/Lanz – http://www.birkenhoerdt.net/

Fred’s maternal grandmother, Josephine Manzella, on the 1910 U.S. Census – https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:MPY8-ZZB

Photo by prphotos.com

Birth Name: Laura Ann Osnes

Place of Birth: Burnsville, Minnesota, U.S.

Date of Birth: November 19, 1985

Ethnicity:

50% Norwegian

25% German

25% British Isles (English, possibly other)

Laura Osnes is an American singer and actress.

Laura is the daughter of Jane Ruth (Raduechel) and Russell Nathaniel Osnes. Laura was raised in Eagan, Minnesota.

Laura’s father has Norwegian ancestry. Laura’s mother is of half-German, half-English, descent.

Laura’s paternal grandfather was Russell Ellsworth Osnes. His parents were John T. Osnes and Barbara Pederson (the daughter of Hans Matthias Pederson/Pedersen and Jacobia Olene Hansine Sackerson/Zachariasdatter). John was born in Iowa, to parents from Norway. Barbara was also born in Iowa, to Norwegian parents.

Laura’s paternal grandmother was Ardell Bresdahl/Brosdal. Her parents were Carl Thomas Brosdal (the son of Jorgen J. Brosdal and Thone/Theone Felland) and Alvina/Elvina Tonnetta Tweed (the daughter of Olav/Ole Jonson Tweed and Annie Ramsey). Annie’s parents were Telleiv Torjusson Ramsey and Ingeborg Torovsdatter Heimdal.

Carl Thomas was born in Iowa, to parents from Norway. Alvina was also born in Iowa, to a father from Nissedal, Telemark County, Norway, and a mother from Iowa, whose parents were from Aust-Agder and Telemark Counties, Norway.

Laura’s maternal grandfather was Arthur Raduechel. His parents were William Fredrich Raduechel (the son of Carl Raduechel and Henrietta Schmidt) and Elsie Elizabeth “Lizzie” Drueger/Krueger (the daughter of William Krueger and Anna).

William was born in Nebraska, to parents from Pomerania, Prussia (now Germany). Elsie was also born in Nebraska, to a father from Germany and a mother from Wisconsin, whose parents were German.

Laura’s maternal grandmother was Julia Ann Patterson. Her parents were Laurence/Lawrence Arthur Patterson (the son of Arthur M. Patterson and Mary F. Clements) and Daisy Bell/Belle Rathbun. Arthur’s parents were Fredrick/Frederick A. Patterson and Mary D. Kendell. Mary’s parents were Andrew Jackson Clements and Maria A. Mixer.

Sources: Birth Certificate of Laura Osnes – https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:VCN1-JSZ

Genealogy of Laura Osnes – https://www.ancestry.com/genealogy/records/laura-ann-osnes_153143632

Laura’s paternal grandparents, John T. Osnes and Barbara Pederson, on the 1930 U.S. Census – https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:XMJD-6WV

Laura’s paternal great-grandmother, Alvina/Elvina Tweed, on the 1910 U.S. Census – https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:MG95-CTQ

Genealogy of Laura’s paternal great-grandmother, Alvina/Elvina Tweed – https://www.ancestry.com/genealogy/records/alvina-tonnette-tweed_163995830

Genealogy of Laura’s paternal great-great-great-grandparents, Telleiv Torjusson Ramsey and Ingeborg Torovsdatter Heimdal – https://www.geni.com/

Laura’s maternal great-grandmother, Elsie Elizabeth “Lizzie” Drueger/Krueger, on the 1900 & 1930 U.S. Censuses – https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:M3B5-GT1

https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:XQKR-23P

Genealogy of Laura’s maternal grandmother, Julia Ann Patterson – https://www.geni.com/

Photo by vonora/Bigstock.com

Birth Name: David R. Ignatius

Place of Birth: Cambridge, Massachusetts, U.S.

Date of Birth: May 26, 1950

Ethnicity:

*Armenian (father)

*German, Scottish, English, Dutch (mother)

David Ignatius is an American journalist and novelist.

David is the son of Nancy (Weiser) and government official Paul Robert Ignatius.

David’s paternal grandparents were Hovsep/Joseph B. Ignatius/Ignatosian (the son of Bohas Ignatius/Ignatosian and Shahmel Mazmanian) and Elisa Jamgochian (the daughter of Avedis M. Jamgochian and Akabe Janigian). Hovsep and Elisa were both ethnic Armenians who moved to the U.S. from Harpoot, Armenia (now Elazığ, Turkey).

David’s maternal grandfather was Richard Mather Weiser. His parents were Edwin C. Weiser and Lucy Bagg Brooks.

David’s maternal grandmother was Louise Sharpless Gilbert Reynolds. Her parents were Charles Henry Reynolds (the son of Victor Cooke Reynolds and Lucinda Miller) and Sarah Gilbert.

Victor’s parents were Hiram Reynolds and Mary Ann Bowman (the daughter of Jesse Bowman/Baumann and Sarah Aten). Jesse’s parents were George Christopher/Georg Christoph Baumann and Susan Banks. Sarah’s parents were Dirck “Richard” Aten and Catherine Warner.

Jesse was born in Pennsylvania, to a German/Prussian father from Hesse-Nassau, and a Scottish mother, from Aryshire. Sarah had Dutch and English ancestry.

Sources: Marriage record of David’s paternal grandparents, Hovsep/Joseph B. Ignatius and Elisa Jamgochian – https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:XLHK-R68

David’s father, Paul Robert Ignatius, on the 1940 U.S. Census – https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:K97V-8TP

Genealogy of David’s maternal grandmother, Louise Sharpless Gilbert Weiser – https://www.geni.com/people/Louise-Weiser/6000000018399968211

Birth Name: Mikaela M. Hoover

Place of Birth: Colbert, Washington, U.S.

Date of Birth: July 12, 1984

Ethnicity:
*English, German, possibly other (father)
*Iranian (mother)

Mikaela Hoover is an American actress. She is the daughter of Nancy (Mehrizi) and Frank R. Hoover, Jr.

Mikaela’s paternal grandfather was Frank R. Hoover, Sr (the son of Frederick U. Hoover and Mary H.). Frederick was born in Pennsylvania, to a father from Germany and a mother from the U.S. Mary was also born in Pennsylvania, to parents from England.

Mikaela’s paternal grandmother was Marylin B. Brown (the daughter of George Raymond Brown and Barbara Eva/Eva Barbara Beurket). Barbara Eva was the daughter of Henry Beurket/Buerket and Mary. Henry and Mary were both born in Pennsylvania, to parents from Germany.

Mikaela’s maternal grandparents were Ali Mehrizi and Behjat Shapouri. Ali was originally from either Mehriz or Tehran, Iran.

Sources: Mikaela’s paternal-great-grandfather, Frederick U. Hoover, on the 1930 U.S. Census – https://familysearch.org

Obituary of Mikaela’s paternal grandmother, Marylin B. (Brown) Hoover – http://www.legacy.com

Mikaela’s paternal great-grandmother, Eva Barbara Beurket/Buerket, on the 1910 U.S. Census – https://familysearch.org

Obituary of Mikaela’s maternal grandfather, Ali Mehrizi – http://www.stardem.com

Photo by kathclick/Bigstock.com

Place of Birth: Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

Date of Birth: October 20, 1980

Ethnicity:

*German (father)

*Irish (mother)

Niall Matter is a Canadian actor.

Niall was born in Edmonton, Alberta, the son of Donnell (McAuley) and Neil Matter.

Niall’s paternal grandparents were Bernhardt “Benny” Matter and Agnes Lorraine Schiewe (the daughter of Otto Schiewe and Lydia). Otto’s parents were Louis Schiewe and Hellena. Louis and Hellena hailed from Russia, and were likely ethnic Germans.

Niall’s maternal grandparents were Donald McAuley and Mary Norah Mullen (the daughter of Edward Mullen and Muriel).

Sources: Obituary of Niall’s paternal grandmother, Agnes Lorraine (Schiewe) Matter – http://www.legacy.com/

Obituary of Niall’s maternal grandmother, Mary Norah (Mullen) McAuley – http://www.legacy.com/

Niall’s paternal great-grandfather, Otto Schiewe, on the 1906 Canadian Census – https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:KHVN-HVH

Photo by kathclick/Bigstock.com

Birth Name: Brian Joseph Gionta

Place of Birth: Rochester, New York

Date of Birth: January 18, 1979

Ethnicity: Italian, German, possibly other

Family Background: Brian Gionta is an American professional ice hockey player and captain of the Buffalo Sabres of the National Hockey League.

Brian Gionta is the son of Sam and Penny Gionta.

Brian’s paternal grandparents are/were Sylvester B. Gionta and Antoinette Gionta.

Sylvester was the son of Salvatore Gionta (the son of Vincent Gionta and Mary Civitia Purifato) and Mary Elizabeth Mandell (the daughter of Philippo and Elizabeth Mandell).

Salvatore Gionta (along with his parents) were born in Italy and immigrated to the United States of America. “Mandell” is usually a German surname.

Source: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/democratandchronicle/obituary.aspx?pid=157436596 (obituary of Sylvester B. Gionta)

Geni.com (starting with Salvatore Gionta and Mary Elizabeth Mandell)

Birth Name: Jennifer Lynne Gareis

Place of Birth: Lancaster, Pennsylvania, U.S.

Date of Birth: August 1, 1970

Ethnicity:

*37,5 % British Isles (Irish, English)

*37,5% German

* 25% Italian/Sicilian

Jennifer Gareis is an American actress and former beauty pageant.

Jennifer is the daughter of Dolores Ann (Feige) and John W. Gareis. She has a sister, Rebecca.

Jennifer’s mother is of half-Italian, a quarter German, and a quarter Irish and English descent. Jennifer’s father is of half-German and of half-British Isles descent. Jennifer holds both American and Italian citizenship.

Jennifer’s paternal grandfather was Louis Calvin Gareis. His parents were Otto Carl/Karl Gareis (the son of Johann Adam Gareis and Auguste Sophia Schreiber) and Rosina Beinmuller/Bienmuller (the daughter of Andreas Bienmuller and Rosina Schiffler). Otto was born in Maryland, to German parents from Enchenreuth, Helmbrechts, Bavaria, and Querfurt, Saxony-Anhalt. Rosina was originally from Wassenbach, Germany.

Jennifer’s paternal grandmother was Edna Cecelia Nester. Her parents were John P. Nester and Susan/Susanna Brown (the daughter of Thomas Henry Brown and Susannah Floyd). Susannah had recent English ancestry.

Jennifer’s maternal grandfather was Edgar Peter Feige, Jr, the son of Edgar Peter Feige, Sr., and Ruth Elizabeth McGrane. Edgar’s parents were August John Feige (the son of August H. Feige and Henrietta E. Wagenschwantz) and Mary/Mare Nolte (the daughter of Bernard Nolte). Ruth Elizabeth’s parents were William F. McGrane (the son of Patrick McGrane and Mary Dunn) and Mary Molly Holmes (the daughter of Robert Holmes and Mary Trainer).

Jennifer’s great-great-grandfather August John was born in Maryland, to parents from Schwarzenau and Beinerstadt, Thuringia, Prussia (now Germany). Jennifer’s great-great-grandmother Mary was also born in Maryland, to German parents. Jennifer’s great-great-grandmother Ruth Elizabeth was born in Maryland and had recent Irish and English ancestry.

Jennifer’s maternal grandmother was Josephine Concetta Ferruggio (the daughter of Pietro “Peter” Ferruggio/Farruggio and Sebastiana Tringali). Pietro was originally from Canicattì, Sicily, Italy, the son of Vincenzo Farruggio and Giuseppe/Giuseppina La Lomia. Sebastiana was born in Militello in Val di Catania, Sicily, Italy, the daughter of Salvatore Tringali and Concetta Bellistri.

Sources: Genealogy of Jennifer’s paternal grandparents, Louis Calvin Gareis and Edna Cecelia Nester – https://www.ancestry.com/genealogy/records/louis-c-gareis_183746474

Obituary of Jennifer’s paternal grandfather, Louis Calvin Gareis – http://articles.baltimoresun.com/

Jennifer’s paternal-great-grandfather John P. Nestor, on the 1920 U.S. Census – https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:M4TQ-H6Q

Genealogy of Jennifer’s maternal grandparents, Edgar Peter Feige and Josephine Concetta Ferruggio/Farruggio – https://www.ancestry.com/genealogy/records/edgar-p-feige_142564435

Obituary of Jennifer’s maternal grandmother, Josephine (Ferruggio) Feige – http://www.genlookups.com/pa/webbbs_config.pl/noframes/read/2032

http://articles.baltimoresun.com/

http://lancasteronline.com/

Jennifer’s maternal grandfather, Edgar Peter Feige, Jr., on the 1920 U.S. Census – https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:M6Q6-XXJ

Jennifer’s maternal great-grandfather, Edgar Peter Feige, Sr., on the 1900 U.S. Census – https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:M3KD-SRJ

Photo by kathclick/Bigstock.com

Birth Name: Sean Perelman

Place of Birth: Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.

Date of Birth: November 2, 1966

Ethnicity:
*Ashkenazi Jewish (father and maternal grandfather)
*German and Irish (maternal grandmother; who likely converted to Judaism)

Sean Kanan is an American actor.

Sean is the son of Michele/Michelle Gail (Keyes) and Dale R. Perelman. Sean’s father is Jewish (with ancestors from Poland and Russia). Sean’s maternal grandfather was of Lithuanian Jewish and Russian Jewish descent, and Sean’s Canadian-born maternal grandmother was of German and Irish descent, and likely converted to Judaism.

Sean’s paternal grandfather was Lawrence Edward Perelman (the son of Jacob Frank Perelman and Susan/Sue/Sadie Rizika/Riziha). Jacob was born in Ohio, to parents from Russia. Susan was born in Russia, to parents from Russia.

Sean’s paternal grandmother was Janice Lenore Sandusky (the daughter of Morris M. Sandusky and Sorley/Sorly Rabinowitz). Sorley was born in Pennsylvania, to parents from Poland.

Sean’s maternal grandfather was Sydney/Sidney Clifton Keyes. His parents were Abel/Abe Katz and Sarah Green (the daughter of Isaac Green and Rose Maslon). Abel was born in Skudutiškis, Lithuania; Sarah was born in Wisconsin, to parents from Russia.

Sean’s maternal grandmother was Alma Ida Toeppner. Her parents were William Frederick Toeppner (the son of Frederick August Toeppner and Josephine Mechefski/Mechefske) and Mary Alexander Nesbitt (the daughter of James George Nesbitt and Elizabeth Victoria Lowe).

Sean’s great-grandfather William was born in Canada, to Lutheran parents from Insterburg, East Prussia (now Chernyakhovsk, Kaliningrad Oblast, Russia) and Dorfe Baute, Prussia. Sean’s great-grandmother Mary was also born in Canada, to Irish parents.

Sources: Obituary of Sean’s paternal grandfather, Lawrence Edward Perelman – http://thejewishchronicle.net/

Sean’s paternal great-grandfather, Jacob Frank Perelman, on the 1930 U.S. Census – https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:XHQZ-X18

Sean’s paternal great-grandmother, Sorley/Sorly (Rabinowitz) Sandusky, on the 1930 U.S. Census – https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:X7D8-5JP

Genealogy of Sean’s maternal grandparents, Sidney Clifton Keyes/Katz and Alma Ida Toeppner – http://www.toeppner.ca/Ancestry/10851.html

Obituary of Sean’s maternal grandmother, Alma (Toeppner) Keyes – http://www.ncnewsonline.com/

Genealogy of Sean’s maternal great-great-grandparents, James George Nesbitt and Elizabeth Victoria Lowe – http://gw.geneanet.org/belfast8?lang=en&p=james&n=nesbitt&oc=98

Information on Sean’s maternal great-great-grandparents, Frederick August Toeppner and Josephine Mechefski/Mechefske – http://www.toeppner.ca/Frederick/index.html

https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/73078382/

Photo by Prphotos

Birth Name: Peter Hans Docter

Place of Birth: Bloomington, Minnesota, U.S.

Date of Birth: October 9, 1968

Ethnicity:

*German, English, at least 1/128 French (father)

*Danish (mother)

Pete Docter is an American film director, animator, screenwriter, producer, and voice actor.

Pete was born in Bloomington, Minnesota, the son of Rita Margaret (Kanne) and David Reinhardt Docter. He has two sisters, Kari and Kirsten. The family moved to Denmark when Pete was ten years old.

Pete’s paternal grandparents were Nicholas Joseph Docter, Jr. (the son of Nicholas Joseph Docter, Sr. and Wilhelmina Minnie Herschied/Hierscheist) and Gretchen Reinhardt (the daughter of Willis/Willie Frederic Reinhardt and Cora Ellen Priest). Cora’s parents were John Shorey Priest (the son of David Howard Priest and Jane Shorey) and Elizabeth Gordon (the daughter of William H. Gordon and Ellen Lucinda Royal).

Nicholas, Sr. was born in Wisconsin, to parents from Germany. Wilhelmina was born in Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. Willis was born in Minnesota, to parents from Germany. Cora was born in Maine, of mainly English, as well as some French descent through her maternal great-grandmother, Jane Pouchard/Pochard, whose father was French (from Chenebier, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté).

Pete’s maternal grandparents were George Anton Kanne and Ida Josephine Margrethe Frederiksen. George was born in Aarhus, Denmark. Ida hailed from Copenhagen, Denmark. They moved to the U.S. in 1952.

Sources: Pete’s paternal grandfather, Nicholas Joseph Doctor, Jr., on the 1920 U.S. Census – https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:MFKR-KZ8

Pete’s paternal grandmother, Gretchen Reinhardt, on the 1910 U.S. Census – https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:MKZZ-WB2

Genealogy of Pete’s paternal great-grandmother, Cora Ellen Priest – http://worldconnect.rootsweb.ancestry.com/

Immigration index of Pete’s maternal grandfather, George Anton Kanne – https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:XGHD-QNG

Immigration index of Pete’s maternal grandmother, Ida Josephine Margrethe (Frederiksen) Kanne – https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:XGHD-W4D

https://www.newspapers.com/newspage/130391664/

Photo by s_bukley/Bigstock.com

Birth Name: George Robert Wendt, III

Place of Birth: Chicago, Illinois, U.S.

Date of Birth: October 17, 1948

Ethnicity:
*75% Irish
*25% German

George Wendt is an American actor and comedian.

George is the son of Loretta Mary/May (Howard) and Georg/George Robert Wendt, II. He has a sister, Kathryn. George’s nephew, his sister’s son, is actor Jason Sudeikis.

George’s father was of half German and half Irish descent. George’s mother was of Irish ancestry.

George’s paternal grandfather was William Henry Wendt (the son of George Wendt and Marie/Mary B. Michalski). William was born in Illinois, to parents from Germany.

George’s paternal grandmother was Katherine C. Crowley (the daughter of Jeremiah J. Crowley and Margaret Foley). Katherine was born in Illinois, to an Irish father and a New York-born mother, of Irish descent.

George’s maternal grandfather was Thomas “Tom” James Howard, Jr. (the son of Thomas James Howard and Nellie Welch). George’s great-grandfather Thomas was born in Illinois, the son of Irish parents, Thomas Howard and Bridget Conboy. Nellie was also born in Illinois, also to Irish parents, with her father’s name being Thomas Welch.

George’s maternal grandmother was Helen M. Walsh. She was born in Illinois, to parents from Ireland.

Sources: Genealogy of George Wendt – https://www.geni.com

George’s paternal great-grandparents, Jeremiah J. Crowley and Margaret Foley, on the 1930 U.S. Census – https://familysearch.org

George’s maternal grandfather, Thomas James Howard, Jr., on the 1920 U.S. Census – https://familysearch.org

Photo by Prphotos

Birth Name: Constantine Alexander Payne

Place of Birth: Omaha, Nebraska, U.S.

Date of Birth: February 10, 1961

Ethnicity: Greek, 1/4 German

Alexander Payne is an American film director, screenwriter, and producer. He is the son of Peggy (Constantine) and George Payne. He has two brothers, Nicholas and George.

Alexander’s father is of half-Greek, half-German descent. His surname “Payne” was originally modified from “Papadopoulos”. Alexander’s mother also has Greek ancestry.

Regarding his Greek background, Alexander has stated:

“I’m American, I am Greek-American, but American. However, this crisis affecting Greece I feel that it mobilizes my DNA. Sometimes I’m thinking about things that might help. I believe that the time is right for artists, including Greek artists of the diaspora to make beautiful things. And to do it with the consciousness of their Greekness, to help Greece and care.”

Alexander’s paternal grandfather was Nicholas/Nikos/Nick S. Payne (the son of Spiro Papadopoulos and Georgia Michalopoulos). Nicholas was born in Aigio, Achaea, Greece, to Greek parents.

Alexander’s paternal grandmother was Clara Rose Hoffman/Hoffmann (the daughter of Joseph Hoffmann, Sr. and Anna). Clara was born in Nebraska, to parents from Germany.

Alexander’s maternal grandparents had roots in Livadeia, Boeotia, and Syros, Greece.

Sources: Alexander’s paternal grandfather, Nicholas “Nick” S. Payne/Papadopoulous, on the 1930 U.S. Census – https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:XQKD-LWW

Alexander’s paternal grandmother, Clara Rose Hoffman/Hoffmann, on the 1910 U.S. Census – https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:MLHQ-35Q

http://www.stjohnsgreekorthodox.org/centennial/Payne.pdf

http://www.nebraskalife.com/Nebraskan-Director-Alexander-Payne/

https://www.ellines.com/

Photo by Debby Wong/Bigstock.com

Birth Name: Gregory Paul Nicotero

Place of Birth: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, U.S.

Date of Birth: March 15, 1963

Ethnicity:
*50% Italian
*31.25% German
*12.5% Welsh
*6.25% English

Greg Nicotero is an American director, special make-up effects creator, and television producer.

Greg is the son of Constance “Connie” (Griffiths) and James “Jim” A. Nicotero. Greg’s father is of Italian descent. Greg’s mother has German, Welsh, and English roots.

Greg’s paternal grandfather was Guy J. Nicotero (the son of Patsy Nicotero and Theresa). Guy was born in Pennsylvania, to parents from Italy.

Greg’s paternal grandmother was Josephine Abbott (the daughter of Mary Abbott). Josephine was also born in Pennsylvania, to parents from Italy.

Greg’s maternal grandfather was John C. Griffiths, Jr. (the son of John C. Griffiths, Sr. and Louisa). John, Sr. was born in New Jersey, to parents from Wales. Louisa was born in New York, to parents from Germany.

Greg’s maternal grandmother was Dorothy Mae Snyder (the daughter of Oscar L. Snyder/Schneider and Florence Wolfendale). Florence’s parents were Thomas “Tom” Wolfendale and Rose.

Oscar was born in Pennsylvania, to parents from Germany. Thomas was also born in Pennsylvania, to parents from England. Rose was born in West Virginia, to parents from Germany.

Sources: Greg’s paternal grandfather, Guy Nicotero, on the 1930 U.S. Census – https://familysearch.org

Greg’s paternal grandmother, Josephine Abbott/Abbate, on the 1930 U.S. Census – https://familysearch.org

Obituary of Greg’s uncle (mother’s brother), Thomas G. Griffiths – http://www.danielreganfuneralhome.com

Greg’s maternal grandfather, John C. Griffiths, Jr., on the 1930 U.S. Census – https://familysearch.org

Greg’s maternal grandmother, Dorothy Mae Snyder, on the 1930 U.S. Census – https://familysearch.org

Greg’s maternal great-great-grandfather, Thomas “Tom” Wolfendale, on the 1900 U.S. Census – https://familysearch.org

Photo by DFree/Bigstock.com

Birth Name: Megan Nicole Flores

Place of Birth: Houston, Harris, Texas, U.S.

Date of Birth: September 1, 1993

Ethnicity:
*Mexican (father)
*German, possibly Native American (mother)

Megan Nicole is an American singer, songwriter, actress, and model.

She is the daughter of Tammy and Frankie Flores. She has a sister, Maddie. They were raised in Katy, Texas.

Megan has stated:

My dad’s family is originally from Mexico, but now three generations born in Texas. My mom is a mix of German and Native American. The Latin culture played a much larger role in our lives growing up, especially growing up in Houston. Anytime the family is together, even just my immediate family, there will be homemade Mexican food. Usually, we leave most of the cooking up to my dad, but I help make the tortillas from scratch, guacamole, and salsa.

Photo by Prphotos

Birth Name: Jessica Moskaluke

Place of Birth: Langenburg, Saskatchewan, Canada

Date of Birth: June 4, 1990

Ethnicity:
*Ukrainian, possibly other (father)
*German, one quarter Belgian/Flemish (mother)

Jess Moskaluke is a Canadian country pop singer.

Jess is the daughter of Rhonda (Walz) and Robert Moskaluke. Her father’s surname is of Ukrainian origin. Her mother has German and one quarter Belgian (Flemish) ancestry.

Jess’ maternal grandfather was Earl Walz (the son of Alfred Walz and Elizabeth de Pape). Alfred was the son of Joseph Walz and Anna Buchberger, who were ethnic Germans, born in Galicia, Austria (now Ukraine) and Bavaria, Germany. Elizabeth was the daughter of Frank de Pape, who was born in Illinois, U.S., to parents from Belgium, and of Emelie Marie Lucie Van Hee, who was originally from Merkem, West Flanders, Belgium.

Jess’ maternal grandmother was Rosemarie Silbernagel (the daughter of John Silbernagel and Roseanne Beck). John was the son of Ignatz Silbernagel and Magdalena Sander. Roseanne was the daughter of Kasper Beck and Katherine Litzingen. Jess’ great-great-grandparents Ignatz, Madgalena, Kasper, and Katherine all hailed from Kutschurgan, Ukraine (now Kuchurhan, Rozdilna Raio, Odessa Oblast, Ukraine), a village that was established by Roman Catholic German and Alsatian French immigrants in 1808. The family were ethnic Germans.

Sources: Genealogy of Jess’ maternal grandfather, Earl Watz – http://worldconnect.rootsweb.ancestry.com

Jess’ maternal great-grandfather, Alfred Walz, on the 1911 Canada Census – https://familysearch.org

Genealogy of Jess’ maternal grandmother, Rosemarie Silbernagel – http://www.gigacorp.net

Obituary of Jess’ maternal great-grandmother, Rosanne (Beck) Silbernagel – http://www.legacy.com

https://issuu.com

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Birth Name: Jace Lee Norman

Place of Birth: Corrales, New Mexico, U.S.

Date of Birth: March 21, 2000

Ethnicity: Syrian (paternal grandfather), English, Scottish, German, Swiss-German, possibly other

Jace Norman is an American actor.

Jace’s paternal grandfather was Frederick/Fred John Norman (the son of The Rev. George Norman and Requetta/Requette). Frederick was born in Michigan, to Syrian parents.

Jace’s paternal grandmother was Joretta Pearl Moeller (the daughter of George Henry Moeller and Avo Elfie McKinney). George was the son of Claus Henry Moeller, who was German, and of Marie Nyffeler, who was Swiss. Avo was the daughter of Samuel Jefferson “Sam/S. J.” McKinney and Mary Melinda Tennessee “Tennie” Gage.

Sources: Jace’s paternal grandfather, Frederick/Fred John Norman, on the 1940 U.S. Census – https://familysearch.org

Obituary of Jace’s paternal grandfather, Frederick/Fred John Norman – http://obituaries.tribdem.com

Genealogy of Jace’s paternal grandmother, Joretta Pearl Moeller – https://www.findagrave.com

Obituary of Jace’s paternal grandmother, Joretta Pearl (Moeller) Simmons – http://www.argusobserver.com

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Birth Name: Geoffrey Manton Stults

Place of Birth: Detroit, Michigan, U.S.

Date of Birth: December 15, 1977

Ethnicity: German, Irish, English, possibly other

Geoff Stults is an American actor and model.

Geoff is the son of Jenelle Marie (Hampton) and Ronald Lee Stults. He has a brother, George, who is also an actor and model. They were raised in Colorado.

Geoff’s paternal grandmother was Dolly Anne McNerney (the daughter of Michael G. McNerney and Mae/May Loretta Rooney). Michael was born in Ohio, to a father from Ireland, Michael McNerney, and a mother from England, Mary Moran, who was likely also of Irish ancestry. Mae was born in Canada, to a father from Canada, James Rooney, and a mother from England, Anna Lacey.

Sources: Obituary of Geoff’s paternal great-aunt (paternal grandmother’s sister), Kathleen (McNerney) Kramer – http://www.legacy.com

Geoff’s paternal great-grandfather, Michael G. McNerney, on the 1920 U.S. Census – https://familysearch.org

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Birth Name: Thomas Roy Skerritt

Place of Birth: Detroit, Michigan, U.S.

Date of Birth: August 25, 1933

Ethnicity: German, English

Tom Skerritt is an American actor.

Tom is the son of Helen Jane (Maybee) and Leroy “Roy” Philemon Skerritt. He has two brothers. Tom’s father was born in Ontario, Canada, of English descent. Tom’s mother was from Michigan, and had German and English ancestry.

Tom’s maternal grandfather was William Harris Maybee (the son of John Canniff Maybee and Jane Harris). John was the son of William Giles Maybee and Elizabeth Walker. Jane was born in England.

Tom’s maternal grandmother was Cora Alice Barnhart (the daughter of Joel Barnhart and Elizabeth Fletcher Jessup). Joel was the son of Daniel Barnhart and Eva Bowman. Elizabeth was the daughter of Jacob Jessup and Elizabeth.

Sources: Genealogy of Tom Skerritt – http://worldconnect.rootsweb.ancestry.com

Genealogy of Tom’s mother, Helen Jane (Maybee) Skerritt – https://www.ancestry.co.uk

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Birth Name: Michael C. Cernovich

Place of Birth: Illinois, United States

Date of Birth: November 17, 1977

Ethnicity: Croatian (paternal grandfather), English, Manx, Irish, German, possibly other

Mike Cernovich is an American social media personality, writer, and conspiracy theorist. He is the son of Diane Lynn (Riley) and Michael John Cernovich.

Mike’s father is of one half Croatian and one quarter Manx descent. Mike’s mother has English, and likely Irish and German, ancestry. Mike’s mother has also written that she is of one eighth Cherokee Native American descent. It is not clear if this ancestry has been verified/documented.

Mike’s paternal grandfather was Mike Cernovich (the son of John Cernovich and Anna/Anne Matušić). John and Anna were Croatian immigrants. Anna was born in Gromača, Croatia, the daughter of Niko Matušić and Anica Bronzić.

Mike’s paternal grandmother was Shirley Ann Brew (the daughter of Greba/Greeba C. Brew). Greba was born in Iron River, Michigan, to parents from Malew, Isle of Man, John James Brew and Matilda Rebecca Taggart.

Mike’s maternal grandfather was Edward Riley. Edward was born in Blackpool, England.

Mike’s maternal grandmother was Edna Jo Clemons (the daughter of John Thomas Clemons and Ludie E. Cline). John was the son of Charles Abner Clemons and Frances Odessa “Dessie” Roberts.

Sources: Obituary of Mike’s paternal great-aunt, Mary (Cernovich) Dragojevich – https://findagrave.com

Genealogy of Mike’s paternal great-grandmother, Anna/Anne Matušić – https://www.geni.co/

Obituary and genealogy of Mike’s paternal grandmother, Shirley Ann Brew (focusing on her mother’s side) – https://www.findagrave.com

Obituary of Mike’s maternal great-aunt, Pearl (Clemons) Capuano – http://www.legacy.com

Genealogy of Mike’s maternal grandmother, Edna Jo Clemons (through Edna’s brother, Hill J. Clemons) – https://www.findagrave.com

Mike’s maternal grandmother, Edna Jo Clemons, on the 1930 U.S. Census – https://familysearch.org

Mike’s maternal great-grandparents, John Thomas Clemons and Ludie E. Cline, on the 1910 U.S. Census – https://familysearch.org

Birth Name: Brook M. Busey

Place of Birth: Lemont, Illinois, U.S.

Date of Birth: June 14, 1978

Ethnicity:

*English, German [including Alsatian German] (father)

*Italian (mother)

Diablo Cody is an American screenwriter, producer, author, journalist, memoirist, stripper and exotic dancer.

Diablo is the daughter of Pamela “Pam” Mary and Gregory “Greg” F. Busey. Her father has English and German (including Alsatian) ancestry. Her mother is said to have Italian ancestry.

Her paternal grandfather was Clinton M. Busey. His parents were  Mary Ann Foster and Clinton Matthew Busey (the son of Clinton John Simpson Busey and Carolina Maria Snyder). John’s parents were Matthew Wales Busey (the son of Samuel Busey and Catherine Seigler) and Elizabeth Bush (the daughter of Josh Bush and Mary Phillips). Mary Phillips was born in Pennsylvania, to a mother from Alsace, France, and a father from Germany.

Her paternal grandmother was Vera A. Sanderson. Her parents were Walter Sanderson (the son of Frederick Sanderson and Celestia Horton) and Emily Lucretia Gregory (the daughter of Knudt Gregory and Amy Lurinda Bliss).

Sources: Diablo’s paternal grandfather, Clinton M. Busey, on the 1930 U.S. Census – https://familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:XSYT-ZS7

Genealogy of Diablo’s father, Gregory “Greg” F. Busey – http://worldconnect.rootsweb.ancestry.com/

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