Notes

BIOGRAPHY

Jane Fraser, the youngest daughter of Duncan and Marjory Fraser was born at Wellington on 16 February 1848, being named after her mother's sister Jane, who had accompanied the family on the voyage to New Zealand on the Blenheim. Both Jane's and her sister Kate's birth were registered on the same date, 3 July 1848. Marjory's sister Jane was married by the Reverend J Mason at Wanganui on 7 February 1842 to Thomas Crosbie, shoemaker, which is perhaps the origin of the Crosby as a second name in later records.

In The Old Place Ralph Richardson wrote: "It has been recorded that Jane and her sister Kate, busy in the garden one day when the rest of the family were absent, were approached by a party of Maoris. In those days such native reconnoitring parties might be friendly or not but in either case they were always on the lookout for arms and ammunition. Jane told her sister to slip into the house and hide the rifles while she kept the Maoris outside as long as possible. The Maoris entered the house but soon went away taking nothing. The incident had its sequel in the evening when their father, Duncan Fraser, getting into bed, landed on a mass of disagreeably hard objects. Kate had hidden the weapons under the blankets."

In the early 1870s while visiting her sister Ann, she met James Richardson, a younger brother of Ann's husband Thomas. James was born in Hastings, Sussex, England, on 18 September 1835, the third son of Thomas and Delia Richardson. After arrival in New Zealand he attended William Finnimore's school in Wellington and later took up the building profession like his brother Thomas before him. At the age of nineteen he left for Melbourne with the intention of settling there, but returned to Wellington a short time later, starting up his own building business. He married Charlotte Waters on 22 August 1859, but their marriage was only relatively short, producing two daughters Annie and Beatrice, as Charlotte died on 23 February 1865. After the loss of his wife James decided to move north and had settled in the Marton area by 1866.

Jane and James were later married on 20 March 1871, and they moved into his home in Maunder Street, Marton which later became known as "The Old Place". Here their son Harold Hasting Richardson was born on 22 January 1872. Jane was delicate but she was able to bring up her son and also looked after her stepdaughter Beatrice.

James had joined the Marton Defence Volunteers shortly after his marriage and was appointed an ensign on 3 June 1871. On 28 October 1871 he was promoted acting Lieutenant of the Marton Rifle Volunteers. Although Marton was not directly involved with the Land Wars, there was always the threat and in 1886 redoubts were built in the vicinity Of St Stephen's Church.

Family life was cut short again for James as Jane died on 11 October 1886, at the young age of 38 years. James remained at "The Old Place" and was elected a borough councillor in 1892, a position he held until his death. For his last years he moved in with his son H H, as he was known, who lived in Bond Street. James died at Marton on 16 January 1905 and was buried beside Jane at the Fraser Family Cemetery at Parewanui.

Source: Pukehou: The Frasers of Lower Rangitikei, Ian Clapham, 1998.

BIRTH

Most family tree's on ancestry.com have a birth date of 23 Sep 1832 for Caroline BROWN, and her marriage 17 Sep 1846 when she was 13 years old. However her death notice in 1899 indicates she was 68 years old when she died, indicating that she was born in 1830 and married when she was 15 years old.

CAR FALLS INTO ESTUARY

BABY RESCUED UNCONSCIOUS
PARENTS TREATED FOR SHOCK

A baby was taken from the water unconscious last evening after a car failed to take a bend in Humphreys drive and plunged into the Estuary shortly after 8 p.m. The baby is Michael Charles Aberhart, aged 16 months, a son of Mr and Mrs E. C. Aberhart, of 91 Ohoka road, Kaiapoi. The car, which was travelling from Kaiapoi, smashed into two concrete posts before it entered the water. The driver of the car, Mr W. A Huxtable, of Amberley, dragged the child's parents from the vehicle which was upside down in the water. He then returned for the child which was floating unconscious in the water inside the car. The baby was taken by St. John Ambulance to the Christchurch Public Hospital where he was reported to be on the seriously ill list late last evening. Mrs Aberhart was treated by Dr. D. Simpson, given a change of clothes and taken to the Christchurch Hospital where she was treated for shock but was not admitted. Her husband and Mr Huxtable were treated by Dr. L. R. Chapman and taken to hospital and treated for shock.

Source: The Press, 27 April 1956, Page 12.

Car hits truck

(N.Z Press Association)
AUCKLAND, May 23.
A man was killed this afternoon after his car struck the back of a truck in Glenfield, Auckland. He was Harold Edward Revell, aged 44, married, with five children, of Packham Place, Beachhaven.

The car hit the truck, then swerved across the road and struck a power pole.

Source: The Press (Christchurch), 24 May 1972, Page 2.

CAR'S PLUNGE OVER WHARF
Two Boys' Bodies Still Untraced

AUCKLAND, May 6.

After five days of inquiries, the Takapuna police say they have little doubt that Rodney Watkins, aged six. and his brother, Peter, aged two, were in a car with their father when it plunged over the edge of the Birkenhead wharf last Sunday night. The body of their father, David Howard Watkins, aged 37, salesman, was recovered from the car later that night.

Senior-Sergeant W H. Slater, officer in charge at Takapuna, said today that it had been established that the car left Cambridge about 4.30 p.m. and was next traced to Birkenhead when the boys were still with their father.

The fact that the back doors were locked and the boys' clothing, toys and footwear were inside supported the belief that they we're in the car at the time, he said.

It was possible they had been forced out of the broken back windows by the inrush of water.

Mr Slater said beaches In the vicinity were still being searched.

Source: The Press, 7 May 1960, Page 12.

INQUEST

Wife's Evidence At Inquest On Tragedy At Birkenhead

AUCKLAND, Sept 9.

The bodies of two children believed to have been in the car driven by their father over the Birkenhead wharf on May 1 have never been found, but today at an inquest into their deaths the Coroner (Mr W. S. Spence, S.M.) found that they were drowned. He said there was not the same direct evidence of their deaths as in the case of their father, but the inference that they had drowned was irresistible.

He found that David Howard Watkins, aged 37, bus driver, of Takapuna, died by drowning on May 1 after driving his car over the Birkenhead wharf into the Waitemata harbour.

He also found that the two boys, Rodney James Watkins, aged 5, and Peter Ronald Watkins, aged 2, died by drowning through being in a car driven by their father over the wharf.

The mother of the two boys, Kathleen Bonita Watkins, said she and her husband had entered into a separation agreement earlier In the year. It had been agreed that her husband would leave their house by May 2, 1960.

She gave details of three earlier instances when her husband had threatened to take his own life.

Mrs Watkins also gave evidence of a number of debts she had had to settle for her husband.

She said her husband had taken the children out at 9.30 a.m. on May 1. He had mentioned he was going to Cambridge to see his brother.

He telephoned her at 7.50 p.m. "He said that I was going to suffer till the day I died - that the children were with him and they had had a lovely day, that he could not live without them or me, and if I would not go back to live with him completely he knew what he was going to do."

Mrs Watkins said she had then notified the police and her solicitor.

Mrs Watkins said that on May 21 she found a note placed under the carpet beneath a settee in which her husband had stated: "Rodney and Peter will be with me - I have not acted on the spur of the moment - I have had it planned for some time."

Source: The Press, 10 September 1960, Page 14.

CAR'S PLUNGE OVER WHARF
Two Boys' Bodies Still Untraced

AUCKLAND, May 6.

After five days of inquiries, the Takapuna police say they have little doubt that Rodney Watkins, aged six. and his brother, Peter, aged two, were in a car with their father when it plunged over the edge of the Birkenhead wharf last Sunday night. The body of their father, David Howard Watkins, aged 37, salesman, was recovered from the car later that night.

Senior-Sergeant W H. Slater, officer in charge at Takapuna, said today that it had been established that the car left Cambridge about 4.30 p.m. and was next traced to Birkenhead when the boys were still with their father.

The fact that the back doors were locked and the boys' clothing, toys and footwear were inside supported the belief that they we're in the car at the time, he said.

It was possible they had been forced out of the broken back windows by the inrush of water.

Mr Slater said beaches In the vicinity were still being searched.

Source: The Press, 7 May 1960, Page 12.

INQUEST

Wife's Evidence At Inquest On Tragedy At Birkenhead

AUCKLAND, Sept 9.

The bodies of two children believed to have been in the car driven by their father over the Birkenhead wharf on May 1 have never been found, but today at an inquest into their deaths the Coroner (Mr W. S. Spence, S.M.) found that they were drowned. He said there was not the same direct evidence of their deaths as in the case of their father, but the inference that they had drowned was irresistible.

He found that David Howard Watkins, aged 37, bus driver, of Takapuna, died by drowning on May 1 after driving his car over the Birkenhead wharf into the Waitemata harbour.

He also found that the two boys, Rodney James Watkins, aged 5, and Peter Ronald Watkins, aged 2, died by drowning through being in a car driven by their father over the wharf.

The mother of the two boys, Kathleen Bonita Watkins, said she and her husband had entered into a separation agreement earlier In the year. It had been agreed that her husband would leave their house by May 2, 1960.

She gave details of three earlier instances when her husband had threatened to take his own life.

Mrs Watkins also gave evidence of a number of debts she had had to settle for her husband.

She said her husband had taken the children out at 9.30 a.m. on May 1. He had mentioned he was going to Cambridge to see his brother.

He telephoned her at 7.50 p.m. "He said that I was going to suffer till the day I died - that the children were with him and they had had a lovely day, that he could not live without them or me, and if I would not go back to live with him completely he knew what he was going to do."

Mrs Watkins said she had then notified the police and her solicitor.

Mrs Watkins said that on May 21 she found a note placed under the carpet beneath a settee in which her husband had stated: "Rodney and Peter will be with me - I have not acted on the spur of the moment - I have had it planned for some time."

Source: The Press, 10 September 1960, Page 14.

CAR'S PLUNGE OVER WHARF
Two Boys' Bodies Still Untraced

AUCKLAND, May 6.

After five days of inquiries, the Takapuna police say they have little doubt that Rodney Watkins, aged six. and his brother, Peter, aged two, were in a car with their father when it plunged over the edge of the Birkenhead wharf last Sunday night. The body of their father, David Howard Watkins, aged 37, salesman, was recovered from the car later that night.

Senior-Sergeant W H. Slater, officer in charge at Takapuna, said today that it had been established that the car left Cambridge about 4.30 p.m. and was next traced to Birkenhead when the boys were still with their father.

The fact that the back doors were locked and the boys? clothing, toys and footwear were inside supported the belief that they we're in the car at the time, he said.

It was possible they had been forced out of the broken back windows by the inrush of water.

Mr Slater said beaches In the vicinity were still being searched.

Source: The Press, 7 May 1960, Page 12.

INQUEST

Wife's Evidence At Inquest On Tragedy At Birkenhead

AUCKLAND, Sept 9.

The bodies of two children believed to have been in the car driven by their father over the Birkenhead wharf on May 1 have never been found, but today at an inquest into their deaths the Coroner (Mr W. S. Spence, S.M.) found that they were drowned. He said there was not the same direct evidence of their deaths as in the case of their father, but the inference that they had drowned was irresistible.

He found that David Howard Watkins, aged 37, bus driver, of Takapuna, died by drowning on May 1 after driving his car over the Birkenhead wharf into the Waitemata harbour.

He also found that the two boys, Rodney James Watkins, aged 5, and Peter Ronald Watkins, aged 2, died by drowning through being in a car driven by their father over the wharf.

The mother of the two boys, Kathleen Bonita Watkins, said she and her husband had entered into a separation agreement earlier In the year. It had been agreed that her husband would leave their house by May 2, 1960.

She gave details of three earlier instances when her husband had threatened to take his own life.

Mrs Watkins also gave evidence of a number of debts she had had to settle for her husband.

She said her husband had taken the children out at 9.30 a.m. on May 1. He had mentioned he was going to Cambridge to see his brother.

He telephoned her at 7.50 p.m. "He said that I was going to suffer till the day I died - that the children were with him and they had had a lovely day, that he could not live without them or me, and if I would not go back to live with him completely he knew what he was going to do."

Mrs Watkins said she had then notified the police and her solicitor.

Mrs Watkins said that on May 21 she found a note placed under the carpet beneath a settee in which her husband had stated: "Rodney and Peter will be with me - I have not acted on the spur of the moment - I have had it planned for some time."

Source: The Press, 10 September 1960, Page 14.

Children

Hilda Eunice Temperton's 1968 death notice lists the following twelve children: Trevor (Hamilton), Betty (Mrs B LEADER), Henry, Norvall (Hastings), Margaret (Mrs K CHURCH), George (Foxton), Valerie (Mrs R McIntosh, Hastings), John (Sydney), Arthur, Roy (Hastings), Judith (Mrs G STREET), and Colin (deceased). I added the commas between Henry and Norvall and between Arthur and Roy. Based on 1963 and 1969 electoral rolls, Betty, Henry, Margaret, Arthur and Judith were all living in Palmerston North in 1968 and so did not have their residence location mentioned.

In August 2023, New Zealand Births, Deaths & Marriages Online, listed the following 11 children for Hilda Temperton with the year of registration:

• 1917 Trevor Roland


• 1917 Iris


• 1918 Sadie


• 1921 Norval


• 1923 Eric Ardern


• 1925 Peggy


• 1926 George


• 1928 Valerie


• 1930 Colin


• 1933 Arthur Alexander


• 1937 Roy

Eric Hugh Temperton is listed as the father of all the above children, except for Sadie. Sadie is shown in the birth register as the daughter of Hilda Eunice Temperton with her father unrecorded. Eric Temperton was overseas with the New Zealand Expeditionary Force when Sadie was conceived. Sadie used a different surname when she married Leon Ryde in 1941, so presumably she was adopted.

Iris used the name Betty Iris when she married Albert Douglas LEADER in 1946 and when she registered on the electoral rolls.

Eric Ardern used the name Eric when he married Norah Annie Teresa FEEHAM in 1947 and when he registered on the electoral rolls. His name is not among the children listed on the death notice.

Peggy used the name Margaret when she married Kevin Thomas CHURCH in 1945 and when she registered on the electoral rolls. She was also known as Peg as indicated on her death notice.

George used the name George when he married Dawn Lorraine THOMPSON in 1948, but Peter George when he registered on the electoral rolls.

The other births listed above used the names their births were registered with, that is Trevor Roland, Norval, Valerie, Colin, Arthur Alexander and Roy.

Children listed in Hilda's death notice but not in the online birth register are: Henry, John and Judy. Judith Ann Temperton, born in 1943, will presumably also be listed after 9 Dec 2023. The website only lists the birth of a deceased person who died 50 years ago or more or who was born 80 years ago or more.

Henry, born 1920 had his birth registered in Taihape according to ancestry.com New Zealand Birth Index, 1840-1950. It is not clear why his birth registration is missing from the online registers.

John, mentioned in Hilda's death notice but not in the online register, married Marlene Isobel Kathleen Mabel FISHER in 1954, divorced her in 1958, and moved to Australia as indicated by Hilda's death notice. He possibly died in Australia, but no record of death has been located. If he married at age 20 he would have been born about 1934. John Temperton who died at Bulls in 2016 was not in the family, based on his death notice (his sibblings were Ray, Phillip, Shirley and Ian).

It was concluded that the 13 children in the family of Hilda Eunice and Eric Hugh Temperton with birth year were:

• 1915 Trevor Roland


• 1916 Iris, subsequently Betty Iris


• 1920 Henry Hugh


• 1921 Norval


• 1923 Eric Ardern, subsequently Eric


• 1925 Peggy, subsequently Margaret


• 1926 George, subsequently Peter George


• 1928 Valerie


• 1930 Colin


• 1933 Arthur Alexander


• abt 1934 John


• 1937 Roy


• 1943 Judith Ann

Source: Blanche Charles provided a copy of the 1966 death notice for Hilda Temperton and considerable Temperton family information in 2012. In 2023 this was supplemented with information from Birth Registers, Electoral Rolls and 2004-2023 death notices.

COMPLIMENTARY SOCIAL

TO PRIVATE A. A. RUSHBROOKE

A large and representative crowd of district settlers attended the complimentary social and dance tendered to Private A. A. (Boy) Rushbrooke in the Te Mawhai Hall on Monday night. There were also present many friends of the guest of honour from surrounding districts.

A jolly evening was spent in dancing, pleasantly interspersed with several items. Music was provided by Mr Jack Dalton, Miss Phyllis Rathbon obliging with an extra. The contributing artists were Mr E. V. Willers and his sons, Dennis and Barry (cornet numbers) and Mrs G. Ramsay (vocal).

Ladies present served a delicious supper, after which Mr E. C. Perrott, jointly for settlers and members of the Te Mawhia Tennis Club, presented Private Rushbrooke with a well-filled leather service holdall. The young soldier, said Mr Perrott, had been born at Te Mawhai and in the course of his residence there had earned the friendship and respect of the many with whom he came in contact.

Private Rushbrooke suitably acknowledged the compliment paid him.

The usual toasts were proposed and honoured and Auld Lang Syne closed a jolly evening.

Source: Te Awamutu Courier, 26 August 1942, Page 4.

TE MAWHAI NEWS

HALL ASSOCIATION

On Friday evening last a very large gathering of friends and well-wishers attended the welcome home function tendered to Flight Lieutenant P. G. A. Rushbrooke, Bombardier A. A. Rushbrooke, Leading Aircraftman T. A. Rushbrooke, and Leading Aircraftman V. S. Oates. The hall was tastefully decorated with golden broom and flags, added to this, the splendid music of J. Dalton's Orchestra, elocutionary items by Miss H. Alexander, Miss j. Webber, songs by Mrs G. Ramsay, and by special request, saxophone solos by Mr S. Barret, the evening proved an outstanding success.

After supper had been partaken of, the chairman of the Association, Mr G. Short, in a few well chosen words, welcomed home the guests of the evening, and he referred particularly to the record of the Rushbrooke family in having three sons overseas and serving in different theatres of war, and all arriving home within a week and so being welcomed home together. On behalf of the settlers and residents Mr Short made suitable presentations to each guest. Musical honours were accorded to the guests, after which each suitably replied.

Dance novelties were won by Mr and Mrs Ratcliffe, G. Crawley and Miss V. Owens.

Source: Te Awamutu Courier, 7 November 1945, Page 4.

Cyclist Thrown Against Rockery.

In an endeavour to avoid running into a woman in Elizabeth street north yesterday afternoon Frederick Ricardo, aged 21 years, of Gooch street, Thornbury, who was riding a motor-cycle, was thrown on to the rockeries, and sustained serious injury.

Ricardo, with a friend, Herbert Spiller, of Lyle street, West Brunswick, was riding towards the city, when he saw a woman crossing the road at Queensberry street. Ricardo sounded his horn, and when he was within 10 yards of the woman she apparently saw him, and stepped back. He turned slightly to the left to avoid her, but the woman became
confused, and walked directly in front of the cycle. She was knocked down, and the impact threw Ricardo on to the
rockery.

He was taken to the Melbourne Hospital, where on admittance he was found to be suffering from a fractured skull. He
was still unconscious at a late hour last night.

The woman was uninjured, and was seen to walk away immediately after the accident.

Source The Argus (Melbourne), 18 Dec 1922, page 14.

DEATH FROM SCALDS

THE WESTFIELD ACCIDENT
MAN WORKING AT DIGESTER
NUTS OF DOOR REMOVED

An inquest concerning the death of Mr Ralph Thomas Ryan, aged 28, a labourer employed at the Westfield Freezing Company's works, who was fatally scalded on April 8 while opening the door of a blood-digester, was held at Auckland before Mr J. W. Poynton. S.M., coroner. Mr. Cahill appeared for the relatives of deceased, Mr. Sellar for the Westfield Freezing Company and Mr. Hollows for the Labour Department.

John William Tureich, foreman of the tallow department, said than on making an inspection of the blood-cooling room after the accident, he found that all the holts on the door of the digester on which deceased had been working had been removed and the door was swinging open from the top on its hinge. The contents of the digester had been fully cooked and about 2 cwt was spread about the floor.

"In my opinion, Ryan removed all the nuts from the door, which was contrary to instructions." said witness. "He was taking a risk and was more likely to be burned than if only a few nuts had been removed. He was a very capable worker and had been doing this work for almost the whole of the five years he was at the works. The draining cock under the digester was open as though he had emptied the water that way."

The blood was removed from the digester through the door after it had been cooled. Two nights before the accident witness worked the digester himself and it occurred to him that if the blood were not properly cooled it would squirt out. He again issued a warning to Ryan to leave at least two bolts on the door while opening it. He thought it necessary to issue this instruction again as he considered deceased was a little careless at times.

William Edward Bidgwood, a labourer employed at the freezing works, said deceased approached him on the refinery floor. He did not appear to be badly burned. Witness could account for the accident only by surmising that deceased had unscrewed the bolts too far or taken them off altogether. There were seven bolts and instructions had been given to leave at least two of the side ones in the door.

Dr. R. G. B. Lusk, resident surgeon at the Auckland Hospital, said that deceased was suffering from severe scalds on the chest and back. He died from shock the morning after admission.

The coroner returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence and stated that death was due to scalds received from blood and water at the digester where deceased was employed. There was no actual evidence to show how the accident occurred.

Source: New Zealand Herald, 24 April 1926, Page 14.

DEATH NOTICE.

PORTER, Charles S. - Passed away peacefully on Monday, January 4, 1999, at York Central Hospital, in his 94th year. Beloved husband of the late Antoinette. Cherished father of Charles Porter Jr. and his wife Mary, Dorothy Ostrom and her husband Lloyd, June Graham and her late husband William, Shirley Foster and her husband Ted. Adored grandfather of eight grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren. Charles worked for the Robert Simpson Company and Sears for 48 years and was with the R.C.M.P during WWII. He was a Mason who belonged to the Bedford Park Lodge in Toronto. Throughout his life, he demonstrated a loving, deep commitment to his family, church and community. Our sincere appreciation to the 4th Floor staff at Cummer Lodge for their continuous compassionate caregiving to our dear Dad. As grand and loving patriarch of the Porter Clan, he will be dearly missed and never forgotten. The family will receive friends at the Humphrey Funeral Home - A W Miles Chapel, 1403 Bayview Avenue (South of Eglinton Avenue East) from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. on Wednesday. Service in the Chapel on Thursday at one o'clock. If desired, donations may be made to the Lung Association, 365 Bloor Street East, Suite 601, Toronto M4W, or to the Alzheimer Society, 2323 Yonge Street, Suite 500, Toronto M4P 2C9.

Source: Ancestry.com - Public Member Tree - Errington/Hill/Porter Family Tree, by Lynda Errington

Death Roll.

It is with feelings of regret that we chronicle the demise of James Ricardo, which sad event occurred in the Heathcote hospital on Monday last at the early age of 36 years. Deceased was the third son of the late Mr Fred. and Mrs Ricardo, the whole family being well known and respected residents of this town, at one time, and the news of deceased's untimely end came as a great
shock to his many friends here.

The late Mr Ricardo married a daughter of Mr and Mrs Weeks, of Nagambie, and some years ago removed to Tooberac, where he entered the employ of the McIvor Weed Co., in whose service he remained up to the time of his death. He was always known as a straight-goer, was a trusted employee of the Company, and very popular with his fellow work mates, and he will be greatly missed in the Tooberac district.

Deceased entered the Heathcote institution quite recently and underwent an operation for the removal of an abacess from the kidneys, but despite all medical aid and careful nursing, he passed away as above stated. The remains were brought across country from Heathcote and interred alongside those of his late father in the local cemetery. The funeral took place on Tuesday afternoon and was largely attended, the service at the graveside being conducted by the Rev. Albon (methodist), whilst the mortuary arrangements were carried out by Mr W. S. Baud. Deceased leaves a young wife and family of three little children to mourn his loss, for whom the deepest sympathy is expressed on all sides.

Source Nagambie Times, 11 Jul 1913, page 3.

DEATH

KAIKOURA, June 19.

A man named Harry Whitlow, living at Hapuku, was found dead on Saturday morning. He had been out tending cows, and, not returning, a lad went in search, and found him dead. He leaves a wife and family of five.

Source: Lyttelton Times, 20 June 1911.

Death

Tracy was pregnant when she had an unexpected aneurysm. Tracy's baby, Kiahn, was born 26th of June 2019 at Tauranga Hospital in an emergency procedure to save Tracy?s life. Kiahn was transfered to Waikato Hospital neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) for care. Tracy survived 2 massive surgeries and was transferred to Waikato Hospital so she could be with Kiahn however a secondary bleed could not be controlled and Tracy passed away on the 11th of July 2019. Tracy was one of the kindest bravest woman, beautiful in heart and soul, sacrificing all of her wants no matter how small or large for the needs of herself, Chris (her fiancée) and Kiahn.

Source: givealittle.co.nz,, 2019.

DROWNED IN TROUGH.

NEW PLYMOUTH, Mar 25.

A 20-month-old child was found drowned in 18 inches of water in a trough on his parents' farm at Smart road, near New Plymouth, yesterday. He was Derek Charles Austin, the son of Mr and Mrs H. G. Austin. The child had been left to play in an orchard, but obtained access to a cow yard through a wash-house.

Source: Taranaki Daily News, 25 March 1949.

DROWNING REPORT

MAN DROWNED.
At Bilgola Beach.
CAUGHT BY UNDERTOW.
GALLANT RESCUE OF GIRL.

Mr. Stanley Edward Wallace, aged 39 years, was drowned, and his daughter. Phyllis Wallace, aged 14 years, was rescued with great difficulty at Bilgola Beach, near Newport, late yesterday afternoon. Both had been carried some distance from the shore by the undertow. The father gallantly supported his daughter until she was rescued, and then collapsed. He was dead when brought ashore.

Mr. and Mrs. Wallace and their daughter, who resided at Fuller's-road, Chatswood, were picnicking at Bilgola Beach In company with friends, and there was a large crowd of other people on the beach. Shortly after 5 o'clock Mr. Wallace and his daughter began to swim about near the shore.

Suddenly the people on the beach heard a cry for help, and they saw Wallace and the girl being swept out to sea. The father was seen to catch hold of his daughter, and to make vain efforts to get free from the strong undertow.

Attracted by the cry for help, Mr. Frank R. Purcell, of Spit-road, Mosman, dashed into the water. Although a powerful swimmer, he experienced extreme difficulty in making any headway on account of the undertow. When he eventually reached the swimmers, who were then about 100 yards from the shore, Wallace, who was exhausted, gasped: "Take the girl."

Mr. Purcell caught hold of the girl and started towards the rocks at the end of the beach. A dozen or more men ran in that direction, and as Purcell came close to the rocks they joined hands, forming a "human rope," and, at an opportune moment, when the swimmers were caught by a large wave, the foremost man seized them, and they were assisted ashore. The girl was unconscious, and Purcell was exhausted. Both revived after treatment by a doctor and lifesavers.

Meanwhile, efforts were being made io rescue Mr. Wallace. Two brothers named Jacobs, of Norton-street, Leichhardt, entered the water with a life-line from the rocks near where Purcell and the girl were assisted ashore, and swam towards Mr. Wallace, who was still floating, but slowly drifting seawards. They reached him after a desperate struggle, and, at a given signal, were hauled up to the rocks. Dr. Bruce and others endeavoured for three hours to revive Mr. Wallace, by means of artificial respiration, but without success. His body was then taken by the Manly District Ambulance to the Manly Cottage Hospital morgue.

Source: The Sydney Morning Herald, Wednesday 2 January 1929.

ERROR

William Henry Raby DAVIS

William Henry Raby DAVIS was previously listed as a child of Frederick Richard Edward DAVIS and Ethel Winifred HAYLOCK. This was an error. No birth registration has been found for William Henry Raby DAVIS, born 02 Aug 1909 (death registration) and died 19 Oct 1977, presumably resulting in mis-identification of his parents.

William's probate file indicates his family origins (available on NZ Archives website). In an affidavit to allow administration of William's estate, his sister Margaret Yutta MacKENZIE of Geraldine states that:

• William, a retired school teacher, was a resident of Geraldine but died in Timaru.
• William was her brother and William had one brother, Morgan DAVIS.
• William had never married and he had no children.
• Williams's partents were dead when he died.

Family tree's on ancestry.com and NZ birth records indicate that the parents of Margaret (1911-1902) and Morgan (1912-1987) DAVIS were Ernest Henry DAVIS (1884-1971) and Stella Klara MALLING (1887-1961).

Source: Archives New Zealand, R19322471, DAVIS William Henry Raby - Geraldine - Retired Schoolteacher.

ERROR

William Henry Raby DAVIS

William Henry Raby DAVIS was previously listed as a child of Frederick Richard Edward DAVIS and Ethel Winifred HAYLOCK. This was an error. No birth registration has been found for William Henry Raby DAVIS, born 02 Aug 1909 (death registration) and died 19 Oct 1977, presumably resulting in mis-identification of his parents.

William's probate file indicates his family origins (available on NZ Archives website). In an affidavit to allow administration of William's estate, his sister Margaret Yutta MacKENZIE of Geraldine states that:

• William, a retired school teacher, was a resident of Geraldine but died in Timaru.
• William was her brother and William had one brother, Morgan DAVIS.
• William had never married and he had no children.
• Williams's partents were dead when he died.

Family tree's on ancestry.com and NZ birth records indicate that the parents of Margaret (1911-1902) and Morgan (1912-1987) DAVIS were Ernest Henry DAVIS (1884-1971) and Stella Klara MALLING (1887-1961).

Source: Archives New Zealand, R19322471, DAVIS William Henry Raby - Geraldine - Retired Schoolteacher.

EVENING WEDDING

GREENSTREET - WILLSON

St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church, Cobden street, was the scene of a pretty wedding on the evening of Tuesday, December 23, when Sylvia, second daughter of Mr. and Mrs. H. E. Willson, Waikohu, was married to George, only son of Mr. G. Greenstreet, and the late Mrs. Greenstreet, Gisborne. The ceremony was performed by the Rev. A. J. H. Dow, and Mr. I. Moore presided at the organ.

Artistic decorations of pink and blue hydrangeas and matching streamers formed a picturesque setting for the bridal group.

The bride, who was escorted by her father, looked attractive in a smartly-tailored grey costume, worn with a navy blue hat and matching accessories. Her lovely bouquet was composed of mixed flowers in autumn tints, intermingled with maiden-hair fern.

Attending the bride was her sister, Miss Marjorie Willson, wearing a salmon-pink suit with hat to match, and accessories to tone. She carried a bouquet of softly shaded mixed flowers.

Mr. W. Parkihson was best man.

After the ceremony a delightful reception was held at the Waikanae Beach kiosk. Mrs, Willson, mother of the bride, was wearing a graceful navy blue ensemble, and a hat to match. Her bouquet was of red roses and carnations. Mrs. Greenstreet wore a frock of deep mauve cloque printed in a floral design with a mauve hat and carried a bouquet of mixed flowers repeating the colour note.

Source: Gisborne Herald, 8 January 1942, Page 3

Fatal Accident at Akaroa.

A man named Edward Tozer, working at Messrs Saxton and Williams' saw mills, Robinson's Bay, near Akaroa, met with his death last Monday, the 13th inst., in a painful and distressing manner. While employed in getting a heavy log out of the bush, preparatory to its being dragged to the tramway leading to the mill, he and his mate, a man named Kingston, proceeded to cross-cut it, in order to facilitate its descent from the top of a cutting where it had fallen. The log was, as usually done, propped up and jammed while the saw was being put through it; but some contretemps occurred when the saw was nearly through, the log suddenly started from its place, bounded downwards, and crushed Tozer, who held the lower end of the saw; death was instantaneous. An inquest was to be held on the remains by the Coroner, Mr Pilliett, on the 14th. Deceased was a hard working labouring man, much esteemed by his employers and neighbours, and leaves a wife and family totally unprovided for.

Source: Lyttelton Times, 15 February 1871, Page 2.

FATAL GUNSHOT WOUND.

An inquest concerning the death of Reginald Charles Gieseler, 28 years of age, who died at the Hospital yesterday, as the result of a gunshot wound received while rabbiting near Kaiapoi, on October 21, was held last evening before Mr T. A. B. Bailey, S.M.

Evidence was given by the deceased's wife and Dr McDiarmid, house surgeon at the Hospital.

A verdict was returned that death was caused by starvation, due to injuries in the abdomen received by the accidental discharge of a gun, which deceased was carrying when out shooting.

Source: Sun (Christchurch), 18 November 1915, Page 8.

FOUND DEAD

MANUTUKE FARMER'S END.
INQUEST OPENED.

When Mr. Peter Wilson Muir, a well-known Manutuke farmer, failed to return to the house for breakfast yesterday morning, a search was made for him and he was discovered by two of his daughters lying face downward in a stream containing about 8ins. of water. Assistance was quickly summoned and two neighbours maintained artificial respiration until the arrival of a doctor who found life extinct.

Mr. Muir, whose home is situated on the Waingake road, was a married man, 43 years of age, with one son and three daughters, to all of whom and to the widow the deepest sympathy of a wide circle of friends will be extended. The funeral will leave the late residence at 2 p.m. to-day for Makaraka cemetery.

The inquest was opened at the residence by the Coroner, Mr. P. H. Harper, S.M., yesterday.

Jessie Grey Muir, widow of deceased, gave evidence that she last saw him alive about 7 a.m. yesterday. He was then in a paddock near the house attending to some horses. When he did not come in for breakfast, she went out to look for him, but failed, to find him. Two of her daughters, then went over to Mr. Morris's, a neighbour, to see if he was there. On their way back, they came upon Mr. Muir lying in a creek on the property. They immediately informed witness, who telephoned Mr. Atkins, and the body was subsequently removed from the creek. Her husband had always enjoyed good health, but he was of a nervous and excitable disposition, easily upset when things went wrong. He had no financial worries, but had been worrying over domestic troubles, having little sleep during the past week. He went to bed about 11 o'clock on Sunday night, but did not sleep and arose at 6.30 a.m. yesterday. He did not then mention anything about his worries, nor give any indication that he would take his life. Yesterday morning he appeared quite all right and attended to his duties as usual.

Alexander Atkins, farmer, of Manutuke, who was called in by Mrs. Muir, stated that he found the body lying face downwards in about 8in. of water. To reach the creek, Mr. Muir would have had to climb a wire fence running parallel with it. There was no sign of any struggle. On recovering the body, artificial respiration was attempted by witness and John Kane, this being continued until Dr. Bowie arrived, and found life extinct. Witness also corroborated several points in the evidence of the previous witness.

Corroborative evidence was given by John Kane, farmer, of Manutuke.

Kathleen Muir, a daughter, who will be 18 this month, gave evidence on the lines of that given by her mother.

The inquest was then adjourned pending receipt of medical evidence, the Coroner expressing sympathy with the widow and family in their tragic bereavement.

Source: Gisborne Times, 11 February 1930, Page 5.

VERDICT OF SUICIDE

MANUTUKE FARMER'S END.
CORONER'S FINDING.

A verdict of suicide was returned by the Coroner, Mr. P. H. Harper S.M., when the inquest of Mr. Peter Wilson Muir, a Manutuke farmer, who was found lying face downwards in nine inches of water on Monday morning, was concluded yesterday. Sergeant Mclntyre represented the police.

"It is impossible to give any other verdict," said the Coroner in announcing his finding as follows: "That Peter Wilson Muir drowned himself at Manutuke on February 10 while in a state of acute mental depression."

Source: Gisborne Times, 14 February 1930, Page 5.

FOUND DROWNED ON THE PETONE BEACH
Man's Body Washed Up At Western End.
"All Right; Good-Bye."

The body of a man named Denne Clement Twyneham was discovered washed up on the western side of the Petone beach, at 10 o'clock, yesterday morning.

An inquest held by Mr F. K. Hunt, S.M., yesterday afternoon, revealed the fact that the man was thirty-four years of age and married.

Ethel Adelaide Twyneham, shopkeeper, residing at Petone, in evidence, said that she was the wife of the deceased. They had been separated since December last. Twyneham had come to see her at her house on Wednesday afternoon, and apologised because he had not been paying her any maintenance money, as he was out of work. He had wanted to stop, but she had refused him.

"All right; good-bye," he said, and flung himself off. Next morning she found two bundles of his clothes, which be had evidently flung over her back fence. He was addicted to drunkenness; that was a reason for their separation. He had previously been a commercial traveller in the South Island; but latterly was employed in a hotel at Picton.

Evidence was given that he was last seen in the Victoria Hotel, Petone, at 7 p.m. on Wednesday evening.

It was stated that deceased had been gassed at the front. He was charged at the Magistrate's Court some months ago for attempting to commit suicide by swallowing "Rough on Rats," and was ordered to come up for sentence when called upon.

Police evidence was to the effect that Twyneham was anything but a pleasant man to live with. "He would sell the very bed from under the woman," the sergeant remarked.

The coroner found that death was due to drowning. No relatives of the deceased man are known.

Source: New Zealand Times, 2 June 1922, Page 4.

FUNERAL OF LATE MRS F. LELIEVRE

ONE OF THE ORIGINAL FRENCH EMIGRANTS.

A very large and representative funeral took place at Akaroa yesterday, when the late Mrs Francois Lelievre, widow of the late Francois Lelievre (who landed at Akaroa in 1887 in one of tbe French whaling ships), was buried in the Roman Catholic cemetery. Mrs Lelievre, who was 88 years of age, and who has lived in the district for seventy-two years was much esteemed by all, and leaves some hundreds of descendants, who reside in Akaroa and the Bays. She has, in common with her fellow French emigrants, played a prominent part in the colonising of the district, and has watched its development from early infancy. It was not surprising therefore that yesterday a very large cortege followed the body to its last resting place to do honour to the memory of one of our most respected French pioneers. The cortege consisted of some two or three hundred persons. Among the chief mourners were her four sons, Messre E. E. Lelievre, E. F. Lelievre, A. Lelievre, and J. G. Lelievre, and two of her daughters, Mrs E. L. Lelievre and Mrs R Ferris, and her two brothers, Messrs E. and Chas. de Malmarche. There were also many near relatives present bearing her name. Two of the original French settlers, M. Libeau and M. Eteveneaux, were also among the mourners. Others who followed the body were the Mayor of Akaroa (Mr G. Armstrong), Akaroa County Chairman (Mr J. D. Bruce), and many other townspeople and important men in the district. The body was first taken to the Catholic Church where Bequiem Mass was celebrated by the Rev. Father Bonetto. Father Bonetto also officiated at the graveside.

Source Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, 4 October 1912, Page 2.

GISBORNE IN THE 'FIFTIES

BEFORE THE TOWN STARTED.

ONLY A HANDFUL OF SETTLERS.
RECOLLECTIONS OF MR. GEORGE POULGRAIN

IT is a far cry back to the days when there was not a single European building on the site of the town area of Gisborne - when the locality was but a wild stretch of manuka scrub and flax, marked by a clump of acacia trees growing on the present site of Messrs. Adair Bros' store. Gisborne then boasted of a single building, Captain Read's old trading store at Kaiti, long since replaced by the extensive buildings of the Gisborne freezing works.

Singular as it is to relate, clear recollections of those early days are held by Mr. George Pouigrain, now in his 74th year.

Arriving in Poverty Bay as a child of only two years of age, Mr. Poulgrain has spent practically his whole lifetime in the district. He has been away only on two occasions, but for the past 50 years he has not been out of the Bay. Despite his age, he retains a splendid memory, and his story is here published for the first time.

Attracted to Australia by the famous Bendigo gold rush, his father, Mr. George Poulgrain, subsequently left Victoria to try his fortune in the young colony of New Zealand, about 1852 or 1853.

Carving out a Home.

In the early 'fifties Mr. and Mrs. Pouigrain came to Poverty Bay, young George being then but an infant. Taking up land at Matawhero, now held by Messrs. Judd Bros., Mr. Pouigrain set to work to carve out a home for his family. He felled the scrub, fenced some of the property, built a house, planted an orchard, and ploughed up the land for cropping. Wheat was grown for the Auckland market. It was cut by hand with a reaping hook and thrashed out with a flail.

The surrounding flats at this time were unfenced and largely unoccupied, except for wild cattle, pigs, goats and horses. It was unsafe to travel on foot in those days for fear of being held up by wild cattle. Two extensive stretches of bush spread across the flats in those early days, the Pipiwaka and the Makauri bushes, together with frequent clumps of white pine.

As for schooling, Mr. Pouigrain frankly admits he had none. His early days were spent about his father's farm. The family had to grind its own flour, and young George had to do his turn before breakfast in the mornings. As to his mates, they comprised the lads of the Tarr family, who lived at Matawhero. He spent, however, a good deal of his time with the Maori boys, who were fairly numerous around the flats in those days.

Lived Near Te Kooti.

The height of their ambition was often to paddle about in an old canoe. This they used to do in the old riverbed at Matawhero, long since drained and under cultivation. Away back in those days it contained 8ft. and 10ft. of water, and its banks were lined with raupo. On the far side of the bank (and approaching the Bridge Hotel) stood a number of Maori whares. It was a small settlement of friendly natives, and it was from here some of his mates came.

Resident amongst these Maoris was a young man. He was not a bad man, but evidently a serious-minded individual for he was never known to smile. His name was Te Kooti - afterwards the notorious rebel who instigated the Poverty Bay massacre - that sad page in the district's early history.

"Te Kooti never interfered with us." explained Mr. Pouigrain in narrating his experiences to a Herald representative. As far as he knew Te Kooti was a law-abiding person. He was a very determined character, and his anger against the pakeha residents of Poverty Bay, as far as Mr. Pouigrain could gather, and he knew the natives well, arose from Te Kooti's deportation to the Chatham Islands.

Earliest Impressions of Gisborne.

The earliest impressions of Gisborne - as it then stood - were gained by young George when he accompanied his father to sell wheat to Captain Read. The grain was conveyed by sledge all the way from Matawhero. The track lay across to the Taruheru river at U'Ren's, now the site of the Kia Ora dairy factory, at Makaraka; thence to "town" it followed down the bank of the Taruheru river. It was a long day's journey, the sledges being drawn by two bullocks, which were also used for ploughing. Wending its way across the manuka flat, where Gisborne now stands, the track came out by a little creek opposite Captain Read's store at Kaiti. The locality is marked to-day by the Harbor Board office. Passengers and produce were ferried across the river by boat. The store itself was not an elaborate building. It stood on the riverbank at Kaiti, with a small wharf in front. The grain disposed of and groceries purchased, Mr. Poulgrain, senior, and his lads would set off with the bullock sledges on his journey back to Matawhero.

Captain Read owned a trading boat called the Tawera (Captain Joe Kennedy). This vessel was lost in the Bay of Plenty and was replaced by the Julius Vogel. Captain Read, he added, used to round up some of the wild stock on the flats and ship the animals away to Auckland.

Kaiti, in those days, boasted of a Maori church adjoining the Kaiti pa. The Maoris were fairly numerous.

Settlers on the Flats.

There was but a handful of settlers scattered on the flats. Poverty Bay settlers in those days did not number many more than a dozen, according to Mr. Poulgiain, as he proceeded to enumerate the different families as he called them back to mind. There were the Tarrs at Matawhero, the U'Rens at Makaraka, the Dunlops at Opou, up the Arai creek, and the Wyllies across the Big river on the Patutahi side. Then there was his uncle Richard Poulgrain, at Makauri, Archdeacon Williams at the Waerenga-a-hika mission school, with between 200 and 300 students. Other settlers included the Harris, and Bloomfield families, at Matawhero, Burns (a shoemaker) and he has some recollection of a Dr. Smith and the Benson family.

Escaped the Massacre.

As those early years went by the Te Kooti troubles arose to cast a on scattered settlers of Poverty Bay. It so happened that Mr. Poulgrain had a practical knowledge of boat building and had built a yacht on the upper reaches of the Taruheru river at Makauri. The rumours regarding the notorious Te Kooti occasioned grave alarm and one night the Poulgrain family boarded their craft and quietly slipped down the river, boarding the schooner Tawera in the Bay. After remaining out there for several days the danger was reported to be over. This was the second "scare" Mr. Poulgrain had experienced and so unsettled was the family that he decided to leave Poverty Bay. He sailed the yacht to Napier, where the little vessel was sold, the family proceeding to Auckland. George Poulgrain followed subsequently, making the journey with Captain Kennedy in the Tawera. Thus, he and his people were actually in Auckland when the dreaded raid occurred, and the massacre of the Poverty Bay settlers took place.

Shortly afterwards George Poulgrain, undaunted by the sad affair, returned to the district, obtaining work mainly in the backblocks. He was employed first in the Ngakaroa valley at Ormond, and afterwards on different properties, including 21 years on the Te Arai station under Mr. Chas. Evans. He was employed at fencing, driving bullocks, and general pioneering. Of the growth of the town of Gisborne, he could speak but little, as he had spent most of his time in the back country. Only once since had he been away from the Bay, and then on a visit to Christchurch. Despite his advancing years, Mr. Poulgrain is hale and hearty. He is now a resident of Aberdeen road.

A Long-Lived Family

Mr. Poulgrain comes of a sturdy family. His father and mother died in the Thames district, both having reached over 80 years of age. His seven brothers and sisters, who all resided in Poverty Bay in the early 'fifties, are still alive. They comprise Mesdames Cox and Dunn, of Auckland and the Waikato, Messrs, Richard (Auckland), John W. and Albert Edward, of Thames, and Fred. Poulgrain, of England. Mr. and Mrs. George Poulgrain have lived to see their family of six children grow up and settle in this district. The old and respected couple will be the recipients of many congratulations, and especially Mr. Poulgrain upon his 72 years' residence in Poverty Bay.

Source: Poverty Bay Herald, 9 May 1927, Page 9

GOLDEN WEDDING.

WAIKATO SETTLERS
MR. AND MRS. C. L. SUTTON

Recollections of a varied life in which there was an abundance of hard work, many difficulties and the experiences common to early settlers and their families, were revived when Mr. and Mrs. C. L. Sutton, of Karaka, celebrated their golden wedding a few days ago. Mr. Sutton, although 84 years of age, still musters sheep and takes an active interest in his farm.

As a boy, Mr. Sutton lived, with his father, Mr. Charles Sutton, on a farm at Omata, Taranaki. When the Maoris became restless his father sold the farm and went to live at Raglan.

"My father bought bullocks from the Maoris at Kawhia, and, at the age of 12, with a bullock-plough, I ploughed about 200 acres of farmland on our property at Raglan," said Mr. Sutton. "My father used to go to Kawhia every half-year to buy about 300 bushels of wheat from the Maoris. The wheat was pack-horsed for about 12 miles around Kawhia beach. Then it was my job to help load it on to bullock drays to take it the rest of the journey. After that my sister and I ground the wheat and made flour for bread-baking each morning." He built a windmill to drive the grinder. Even then it took the whole morning to grind 10 bushels of grain.

"I have done all sorts of jobs in my time," Mr. Sutton continued. "I ran a flax mill, and got between £27 10s and £33 10s a ton for my flax. For four years I was chainman for a Government surveyor, right in the heart of the bush, and we used to kill wild pigs and cattle to fill out our bill of fare. Then I drove coaches between Raglan and Hamilton. Often we had to swim the horses across flooded dips in the road near the Waipa River, and passengers went across in boats."

Mrs. Sutton, who is 67, can remember when butter was sold at between 4d and 6d a pound. Her mother was a music-teacher, and some of the settlers paid their children's fees in kind - so many pounds of cheese or butter every week.

Source: New Zealand Herald , 19 August 1940, Page 13.

Head-on crash kills two

An horrific head-on crash on the Hawke's Bay Expressway early yesterday morning claimed the lives of an 18-year-old Hastings youth and a 43-year-old Napier woman returning home from a holiday in Australia.

Both Stephen Roy Temperton and the woman, Cheryl Vivian Edwards, 43, of Napier, died at the scene. They were both front-seat passengers in the vehicles, which were both carrying four people.

Police are concerned at the condition of one of two young women in the back of the vehicle Mr Temperton had also been a passenger in. The 18-year-old had been taken to Hawke's Bay Hospital in a critical condition and had undergone several hours of surgery for internal and head injuries. Police are concerned at the condition of one of two young women in the back of the vehicle Mr Temperton had also been a passenger in. The 18-year-old had been taken to Hawke's Bay Hospital in a critical condition and had undergone several hours of surgery for internal and head injuries.

The young man's family were today grieving the loss of a son who his father Warren described as being "full of life". "He just come right. He'd gone through that terrible 16-year-old stage. Life was good for Stephen and he was growing up." The former Karamu High and Hastings Intermediate student loved trout fishing and grew up on an orchard. He was one of two children. He has an older sister, Amy. His family is now remembering a "fun-loving kid with a cheeky outlook on life". Mr Temperton believes his son was on his way to stay at a friend's place when the crash happened.

Stephen was a second-year mechanical apprentice and he loved his work. "His passion was cars - he was a natural mechanic. If he wasn't working he was playing on cars." said his boss David Jones. "He had a good future in this trade." He was "a bright young spark who enjoyed everything about life". Stephen's funeral is at 1pm on Thursday at St Matthews in Hastings.

While police had been able to release Mr Temperton's name later yesterday there were delays in contacting relatives of the Ms Edwards, who were overseas. The family is understood to have settled in Hawke's Bay from South Africa. They were only a matter of minutes from home when the crash happened about 3.15am on the Hawke's Bay Hastings Expressway near the Ngaruroro River bridge. The family had been holidaying in Australia and had been returning home after flying into Palmerston North a couple of hours earlier.

The crash happened on a straight stretch of road and police crash investigators were at the scene again this morning completing final examinations. Mrs Edwards' 50-year-old husband received leg and arm injuries, while their six and 11-year-old daughters received moderate injuries. The youngsters were told this morning that they had lost their mother.

Emergency service arriving at the scene found a landscape of destruction. Both cars were extensively damaged from the impact and people trapped in the wreckage. While speed did not appear to be a factor in what happened, both vehicles had struck with considerable force. The roadway closed for several hours and early morning traffic diverted so that investigations could be carried out.

Source: Hawkes Bay Today, 18 Jul 2005.

HEART FAILURE CAUSES DEATH AFTER OPERATION

Evidence was given by several members of the staff of the Cook Hospital when the adjourned inquest on Donald Carl Bulst, aged 10, Matawai, who died at the hospital on May 13, was reopened before the coroner, Mr. E. L. Walton, S.M., in Gisborne yesterday.

After hearing their evidence and that of Dr. C. W. Isaac, who performed a post-mortem examination, the coroner returned a verdict that death was due to sudden cardiac arrest following an anaesthetic on a patient with the condition of status thymo-lymphaticus.

A sister in the hospital, Tui Harris Homer, and an acting staff nurse. Margaret Vivian Hansen, gave evidence that the boy was normal when prepared for an operation for the removal of his tonsils and adenoids on the morning of May 13. On his return to the ward he was rather pale and oxygen was administered. An hour later he coughed and stopped breathing. A doctor was called and artificial respiration was continued without success for about 40 minutes.

No Unusual Reactions

Dr. Alan Derek Fair, who administered the anaesthetic, said that the boy showed no unusual reactions and his condition at the end of the operation, which took about 20 minutes was satisfactory.

The deceased was in a satisfactory condition at the end of the operation, said Dr. Lindsay John McFarlane Black. Later he was called to the ward and applied artificial respiration, continuous oxygen, cardiac massage and the injection of stimulants in an unsuccessful effort to revive the boy.

Dr. Isaac stated that following the post-mortem examination he was of the opinion that Bulst died from acute cardiac arrest, a condition which was quite likely to occur during or after the administration of an anaesthetic in a subject which was quite healthy but which showed an enlargement of the thymus gland at a post-mortem.

"This condition is quite impossible to diagnose during life, but it is a well known fact that sudden death is likely in this type of subject, making them a poor risk for the administration of anaesthetics." concluded Dr. Isaac.

Source: Gisborne Herald, 10 June 1948, Page 6.

HURLEYVILLE.

WEDDING BELLS

A charming wedding of local interest was solemnised by the Rev. Te Punga, of Halcoinhe at ?Pine Grove," the residence of Mr and Mrs Schultz, of Hurleyville, on the 14th inst. The contracting parties were Minnie, fourth daughter of Mr and Mrs O. Schultz, and Norman Ewers, only son of Mr and the late Mrs C. Ewers, of Marton.

The bride looked very charming in a white silk marocain frock, prettily trimmed with narrow satin ribbon, and she wore the usual veil and coronet of orange blossoms, and carried a bouquet of yellow chrysanthemums and asparagus. She was attended by her sister Gertrude, as bridesmaid, who wore a figured silk cream frock, prettily trimmed with pale yellow, and carried a bouquet of cream flowers. Mr F. Schultz, brother of the bride, acted as host man.

At the wedding breakfast the usual toasts were duly honoured, and the bride and bridegroom left later by car, amidst showers of confetti, for New Plymouth, before proceeding to their future home in Nelson.

The bridegroom's present to the bride was a handsome pendant, and to the bridesmaid a gold brooch, the bride?s present to the bridegroom being a gold watch-chain.

The wedding presents were varied and costly, including many cheques, one running into three figures.

The bride?s travelling dress was a navy braided one, with hat to match.

Source: Patea Mail, 22 May 1925, Page 2.

INQUEST NEAR AKAROA.

An inquest was held at Mr T. S. Baker's house, at French Farm, before Justin Aylmer, Esq., Coroner, and fourteen jurymen, of whom Mr A. I. McGregor was chosen foreman, on the body of Harriet Hunt.

Stephen Hunt, sworn, deposed: I am a farmer, residing at French Farm, and am husband of the deceased. Deceased was thirty-three years of age. She was the mother of twelve children. She was confined last Thursday week. Mrs George Giddens attended her during her confinement. Deceased seemed to be recovering up to the 20th. I sent to the Head of the Bay for a medical man. He came on Tuesday afternoon, and prescribed for her. He attended her every day until her death, on Saturday morning, Sept. 25. On Saturday morning early he told me it was a serious case, and I had better send for Dr Jennings. He said he could not give a certificate of death, as he had no diploma with him. I think there is one bottle of medicine administered by him in the house. I sent for Dr Jennings on Saturday morning. He arrived about ten o'clock. He saw deceased, and gave her a draught. She died immediately after. I sent for the doctor at the Head of the Bay because I thought he was a competent person. He has attended my son, prescribed for him, and took a fee. Deceased had previously to this been a healthy woman.

By a Juror: The doctor from the Head of the Bay said he had his diploma in Melbourne. He thoroughly led me to believe that he was a medical man.

Maria Giddens, sworn: I am the wife of George Giddens, residing at French Farm. I attended the deceased, Harriet Hunt, during her confinement, which took place on Sept. 16. There was no medical man present. I have attended her on two previous occasions. I noticed a change on Monday, Sept, 20. She appeared on that day light-headed. She had been out of bed on Sunday for a few minutes, but not out of the room. The windows were not open. She was sitting up in bed on the next day after her confinement reading a book. She was suckling her child. On Sept. 21, a medical man came from the Head of the Bay. I was there when he arrived. He asked her how she felt. She said she was a little light-headed. He sent her some medicine to make her sleep. He attended her every day. He said she had evidently caught cold. He was sober. No other medical man was called in until Saturday morning. I was there when Dr Jennings arrived. Mrs Hunt was then alive.

By a Juror: Previous to Dr Jennings' arrival, I thought deceased was dying.

By the Foreman: The medical man from the Head of the Bay treated her himself, and left me directions about the medicine. She was conscious until the day of her death.

Edwin Edson Gruber, duly sworn: I am a member of the Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, and have been practicing as a chemist. I was called upon to attend the deceased. I found the deceased suffering from fever, low, and light-headed. I gave her a fever mixture. I was sent for again on Friday, Sept. 24, at 11.30 p.m. I found she was suffering from congestion of the lungs. I put on a mustard plaster on her chest, and an oatmeal one on her back. I administered aromatic spirits of ammonia, and some weak brandy and water. I prescribed, and put on a fly blister on her back and ordered a bran poultice to be put on her chest. I ordered Dr Jennings to be sent for. I have prescribed for Mr Hunt's son, but not professionally, I did not ask deceased or anyone else to engage me for the confinement. Nothing was said about the confinement. The boy is not under my care now. What I gave him at first, I considered sufficient. I have been acting as a chemist for about four or five weeks, at the Head of the Bay.

By a Juror: I did not think it necessary to tell anyone that I was a qualified practitioner. I have only charged for medicine.

By a Juror: I first saw deceased on Tuesday afternoon. I think I missed a day, and did not see her on Wednesday. I prescribed a draught on Thursday.

By the Coroner: I have sent a prescription to Mr Chadwick, chemist, Akaroa, but did not charge.

William Oscar Jennings: I am a legally qualified practitioner, residing in Akaroa. I was called to see deceased on Saturday morning, Sept. 25. I found her breathing with great difficulty, unconscious, almost pulseless, and every sign of approaching death. As I had formed some idea of the nature of the case, I brought the necessary medicine with me. I examined her chest, and found her breathing with only the right lung. I gave her some spirits of ammonia and brandy and water, but she did not swallow it. She almost immediately died. I made a post mortem examination of her body on Sept. 26. I found the left lung collapsed, the right lung in a natural condition, a large clot of recent formation filled the right side of the heart, and on the left side of the heart is a clot which has existed for some time. As these were sufficient causes of death, I did not think it necessary to make any further examination.

By a Juror: I think that what she was suffering from would have proved fatal, even if I had attended her from the first. The clots are the occasional result of moving about too soon after confinement.

Cross-examined by Sergeant Ramsay: I do not think that the treatment of the man from the Head of the Bay accelerated her death.

The Jury found the following verdict: "That Harriet Hunt came by her death at French Farm, on Sept. 25, from natural causes."

The Jury attached the following rider, viz: "That they wish to draw the attention of the proper authorities to the custom of persons practicing as medical men, without having complied with the requirements of the "New Zealand Medical Practitioners Register Act."

Source: Lyttelton Times, Volume XLIV, Issue 4565, 30 September 1875.

INQUEST

It was revealed at an inquest before the Coroner, Mr. J. Enislie, today, that Joyce Spurdle, aged eight, of 66 Central Terrace; died at the hospital from a fracture of the skull received when she slipped on a banana skin while playing at school on April 4.

Source: Evening Post on 16 April 1940.

Killed When Crushed Under Army Trailer

John Charles Kearley, 20, single, boilermaker's assistant, was killed instantly when he was crushed under the wheels of an Army trailer at Moorooka at 7.15 this morning.

Kearley, who resided with his parents at Lucy Street, Yeronga, was travelling along Beaudesert Road, outbound on his motorcycle behind an Army truck and trailer carrying 30 soldiers from Moorooka to Redbank.

The truck and trailer turned from Beaudesert Road into Chaucer Street, on the down grade, and Kearley, who was immediately behind the trailer, collided with it.

His motorcycle went under the back of the trailer, and as Kearley fell to the ground the back wheels of the trailer passed over him.

Kearley was employed as a boilermaker's apprentice at the works of Evans, Deakin, at Rocklea, and was on his way to work when he was killed.

Source: The Telegraph (Brisbane), 27 March 1946, Page 5.

LESLIE LAZARUS

MB BS 1953 MRACP FAACB FRACP FRCPA

Leslie (Les) Lazarus became the first full-time specialist in endocrinology at St Vincent?s Hospital, Sydney in 1962 and pioneered the early establishment of the Department of Endocrinology. He was one of the initial Co-directors of the Garvan Institute in 1963, and the first sole Director in 1969.

Les began his medical career as an Anatomy Prosector in 1948 and graduated from Medicine in 1953. He served as a Resident Medical Officer at St Vincent?s Hospital from 1953 to 1954, and then became Pathology Registrar in 1955 and medical registrar in 1956. He was admitted to Membership of the Royal Australian College of Physicians two years later.

In 1959, he obtained a fellowship of the Postgraduate Medical Foundation to study endocrinology at the Institute of Clinical Research, Middlesex Hospital Medical School, London until 1961. It was here that he had the opportunity to work with renowned physician and endocrinologist, Sir John Nabarro.

On his return to St Vincent?s Hospital in 1962, he was appointed Staff Endocrinologist, making him one of the first trained endocrinologists in Australia. As medical historian John Hickie outlines:

At the time of his appointment, space was made available in the Biochemistry Department and with the assistance of Margaret Stuart, a science graduate, he began steroid analyses. Within 12 months, 1011 tests had been performed including urinary 17-ketosteroids, 17-hydroxycorticosteroids, gonadotrophins, plasm cortisol and a number of endocrine stimulation and suppression tests.

In 1963 the Garvan Institute of Medical Research was opened with Les as a Co-director. In 1969 he was appointed sole Director of the Institute. Again, according to Hickie:

Les began a lifelong study of pituitary hormones, especially growth hormone, combining his laboratory skills with the patient problems available in the neurosurgical unit such as pituitary tumours, acromegaly and hypopituitarism. Les and a brilliant radiochemist, John Young, working together at St Vincent?s developed a series of radioimmunoassays for growth hormone, luteinising hormone, insulin, secretin and gastrin. He also combined with John Hickie in studies of aldosterone metabolism in cardiac failure using a double isotope derivative technique. He provided a research stimulus for a large number of young postgraduates. He was responsible for the successful development of the Garvan Institute and its eventual program funding by NHMRC.

Les was admitted to Fellowship of the Australian Association of Clinical Biochemists in 1968 and to Fellowship of the Royal College of Pathologists of Australia in 1977. At the University of New South Wales, he was appointed Senior Lecturer in Medicine (Conjoint) in 1971, Associate Professor of Medicine 1974 to 1979, again from 1984 to 1988, and then Professor in 1988. He held numerous guest lectureships and other professorships between 1968 and 1990.

He was Honorary Consultant Medical Officer (Endocrinology) at the Royal Alexandra Hospital for Children, Sydney in 1972; Chairman of the Human Pituitary Advisory Committee, Commonwealth Department of Health 1976 and Director of Pacific Biotechnology in 1987.

Les was continuously involved with the Council of the Endocrine Society of Australia from 1968 to 1982, when he was elected Honorary Life Member. He was also a member of the Research and Fellowships Committee, NHMRC from 1975 to 1981, Chairman of the Regional Grants Interviewing Committee NHMRC and Member of the CSIRO Medical Research Liaison Committee from 1984 to 1987.[1]

In 1988, Les was made an Officer of the Order of Australia for "services to medicine, particularly in the field of medical research"

Source: Mellor, Lise (2008) Lazarus, Leslie. Faculty of Medicine Online Museum and Archive, University of Sydney.

LOCAL AND GENERAL.

MR CHAS. PARKINSON. - Our readers will learn with regret of the death of Mr Charles Parkinson, of this town, which took place at his residence on Saturday. Mr Parkinson was, we believe, the oldest printer in Wanganui, and was for many years connected in various positions with the newspapers in this town. Some thirteen years ago he relinquished printing and engaged in fanning at Turakina, but his efforts in this line, mainly on account of ill health, were not very successful, and he came back to town and renewed his connection with the business to which he had been brought up. He was throughout his life an active politician, and rarely a political meeting took place but he attended and took some part in the proceedings. He was also a frequent contributor to the correspondence column of tho local Press, and his letters were generally characterised by the sound common sense and reasonableness of the views expressed. Mr Parkinson has been in failing health for nearly a year past, being troubled with a disease of a very painful character. His death was therefore not unlooked for.

Source Wanganui Chronicle, 18 July 1881, Page 2.

MAN FOUND DEAD.

VERDICT OF SUICIDE.

A verdict that death was due to suicide by gas poisoning, while in a very depressed state of mind, was returned by the Coroner, Mr E. D. Mosley, at the inquest yesterday afternoon into the death of John Thomas Nixon, a carpenter aged 47, who was found dead in an empty house at 49 Norwich street, Linwood, on Thursday evening.

Evidence of identification was given by Augustus Samuel Nixon, of 558 Cashel street. Witness had last seen Nixon on October 3rd. His health had always been good. He was worried about financial troubles and domestic affairs, but he had been worried about them for some time. He had never mentioned suicide to witness.

Isabel Fowke, the wife of Alfred Gordon Fowke, of 99 Waltham road, said that Nixon had been living at her home. She saw him last on October 5th. On that day he had said that he would not be home for tea. Occasionally he was moody, but he had never given any indication that he was going to commit suicide.

John Keith Moloney, solicitor, said that Nixon had been a client of his, and he had seen him regularly during the past four or five months. On Monday last an order had been made in the Magistrate's Court for separation and maintenance against Nixon in favour of his wife. Witness thought that all the time Nixon had been hoping for a reconciliation. Nixon had seemed very discouraged, when, on Monday, he was discussing his financial position.

Constable John Clements said he had gone to 49 Norwich street at 6.15 p.m. on Thursday. The door was locked so he broke it open and entered the house. Nixon was lying on the floor of the scullery dead. Witness found a note, indicating an intention to commit suicide, in Nixon's clothes.

Sergeant F. C. Harrison represented the police. Mr J. D. Hutchison appeared for Nixon's widow.

Source: The Press (Christchurch), 10 October 1931, Page 5.

MATTERS IN DIVORCE

PETITIONS TO WANGANUI SUPREME COURT

Robert Wilson (Mr. C. F. Treadwell) sought divorce from Chrissie Mayzie Wilson on the grounds of adultery, Herman Joseph Lambert being named as co-respondent. The petitioner is overseas, and His Honour made an order giving leave to him to proceed with his petition by power of attorney. Annie Wilson, the petitioner's mother, who had power of attorney, gave evidence on her son's behalf. She said she knew that respondent and co-respondent were living together. The two children of the marriage were at present with the mother, but the matter of their custody would be dealt with on the arrival back in New Zealand of the petitioner. He was expected back soon.

Decree nisi was granted, to be moved absolute after the expiry of three months. The question of custody of the children was stood over for an application to be made by the petitioner, as he is not at present in a position to take over custody. Costs were allowed against the co-respondent.

Source: Wanganui Chronicle, 21 February 1945, Page 3.

MILITARY FUNERAL.

MILITARY FUNERAL TO BE ACCORDED.
LATE C. C. PENNEY.

The death took place on Saturday of Cyril Charles, the eldest son of Mr and Mrs James Penney, of Feilding. The deceased, who was a returned soldier, had suffered ill-health through a complaint contracted whilst serving with the N.Z.E.F. on Gallipoli Peninsular, and it was this which has been responsible for his untimely death. Both as a civilian and a soldier, Mr Penney served his country and the news of his demise will be received with much regret. Deceased, who was 30 years of age, leaves a widow and young family. The funeral, at which full military honours will be accorded the deceased, will leave Mr Penney's late residence, Lytton Street, at 3 p.m, to-day for the Feilding cemetery.

Source: Manawatu Times, 16 June 1924, Page 2.

A SOLDIER PASSES.

CYRIL CHARLES PENNEY.

The military funeral of the late Cyril Charles Penney took place yesterday afternoon, and the very lengthy cortege testified the esteem in which deceased was held. As a member of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force who saw service on Gallipoli Peninsula, deceased was accorded military honours. The cortege moved off from Mr Penney's late residence Lytton Street, shortly after 2 p.m, headed by a firing party supplied by "D" company of the 5th Wellington West Coast Regiment, under Sergt. Major Ryan, and then came the Salvation Army Band followed by the gun carriage supplied by the Palmerston North depot. The pall bearers were uniformed members of the N.Z.E.F. and a large number of returned soldiers followed the carriage. Among those present were: Mr W. J. Bramwell (Feilding & District Patriotic Society), Dr Cameron, Mr R. W. Reed, and Mr C. L. Redmond (Returned Soldiers' Association), and Councillors D. Pryde, A. McCorkindale, and J. E. Barltrop (Borough Council), Messrs O. McElroy and A. Campbell (Farmers? Union) and many others. The service at the graveside was conducted by Chaplain A. Mitchell.

Source: Manawatu Times, 17 June 1924, Page 12.

MOTOR-CYCLIST'S DEATH AFTER HITTING CAR

Injured in a collision between the motor-cycle he was riding and a car at the intersection of Wainui road and Kaiti esplanade on the night of April 14, Geoffrey Leonard Needham, aged 19, single, died in the Cook Hospital three days later.

At the inquest held in Gisborne yesterday the coroner, Mr. E. L. Walton, S.M., found that Needham died from lacerations of the brain and intercranial haemorrhage associated with a fracture of the skull. Medical evidence to this effect was given by Dr. Barbara F. Cubit, house surgeon at the Cook Hospital. She described Needham's injuries when he was admitted to the hospital on April 14.

Charles Leslie Wells, Hexton, driver of the car with which Needham collided, stated that he was turning from Wainui road into Kaiti esplanade when the motor-cycle collided with the front of the car. Needham was thrown to the ground.

An eye-witness of the collision, Horace Thompson, also gave evidence as to the position of the vehicles and Needham's fall to the road.

Evidence was given by Constable B. J. Simpson.

Senior-Sergeant G. S. Norris conducted the proceedings for the police.

Source: Gisborne Herald, 14 June 1949, Page 8.

DEATH FOLLOWS ACCIDENT

P.A., GISBORNE, April 17.

A motor cyclist, George Leonard Needham, a clerk, aged 19, who was sent to Cook Hospital on Thursday night suffering from serious injuries following a collision with a car, died early this morning. The deceased was the son of Mr and Mrs L. Needham, of Whakatane, and had been working in Gisborne for some months.

Source: Otago Daily Times, 18 April 1949, Page 6.

NAMES

Hildus BERQUIST

Hildus used various names during his life. In 1879, when his birth was registered he was called Heildus BERGVEST, son of Johanna and Nils - presumably the surname has been transcribed incorrectly and should read BERQUIST.

When admitted to Longburn School in 1885 and 1886 he was registered with the name Hildas BERQUIST, his father being recorded as Niels BERQUIST of Awapuni. In Electoral Rolls between 1899-1919 his name was recorded as Hildus BERQUIST, a labourer living at Tokomaru in the Manawatu.

In 1917 when Hildus enlisted in the NZ Expeditionary Force, he used the name Hilford BERQUIST, and said he had previously been living and working at Tokomaru. The army appears to have interpreted his handwiting as Helford BERQUIST. His next-of-kin was given as his brother W. Berquist, a farmer at Tokomaru.

In 1922, when he married he used the name Hilford Herbert BERQUIST (incorectly transcribed as BERGUIST in marriage records), and Hilford Henry BERQUIST, linesman, when registering for the 1922 Electoral Roll.

The 1925-1949 Palmerston North electoral rolls all record his name as Henry Hubert BERQUIST, at the same address as his wife Frances Josephine BERQUIST. During the same period, his name was recorded as Hrbt H BERQUIST in the Wise's NZ Post Office Directory for Palmerston North.

Finaly, when he died in 1953 at Palmerston North the name Hilden BERQUIST was used in his death registration and on his headstone. The headstone of his wife who died in 1981 refers to her late husband as Hilders.

OBITUARY.

DEATH OF AN OLD RESIDENT

Mr John Hunt senior, who had been in ill health for some time, passed away on Tuesday morning at the age of 78. In giving fuller particulars than those already sent, our correspondent states that the deceased came to Nelson in th ship Selena some 40 years ago, and then resided at Wakefield, where were his brothers, Messrs Thomas and William Hunt, so well-known in that part of the province, and two sisters. Later he went to Riwaka, and started business as a bootmaker, afterwards removing to Motueka, where he carried on the same line of trade with more or less succes till some ten years ago, when he retired to his orchard property, a short distance from the centre of the town. He always took a great interest in fruit culture, and was in his day a very competent musician. Mr Hunt had been married twice, and leaves a widow and family of four sons and three daughters, for whom general sympathy is felt. The sons are Messrs John Hunt (Motueka), James Hunt (Mayor of Richmond), Alfred Hunt (Motueka), ant William Hunt (Tapawera). The daughters being Mrs Goddard (Moutere), Mrs Temperton (Auckland), and Mrs Keating (Palmerston North).

Source: Nelson Evening Mail, 8 July 1910, Page 6.

OBITUARY.

MR ALFRED HUNT

The passing of Mr Alfred Hunt has removed from the Motueka district one of its most respected and popular residents. A large circle of friends will miss his genial personality.

A son of the late John Hunt, he passed his boyhood days in the Motueka district, and then for some years lived on the West Coast. He was far above the average as a cricketer, and in a larger centre would have made a name for himself in this branch of sport.

After his active years in the game had passed, the late Mr Hunt took a keen interest in coaching junior players - a proof of his love of the game. He was also an active member of the Huia Football Club.

Mr Hunt was on the staff of the Motueka Harbour Board for 37 years, the last three as wharfinger. He married Gertrude, daughter of the late Christian Rose, of Rosedale. and besides the widow he leaves 7 daughters and 3 sons: Mrs R. J. Black (Auckland), Mrs J. Krammer (Motueka), Mrs A. J. Sinclair (Motueka), Mrs Paul Wilson (Motueka), Mrs A. O'Neill (Westport), Sergt.-Major L. Hunt (prisoner of war in Italy). Stoker B. L. Hunt (Royal N.Z. Navy), John Hunt (Motueka), Misses Lucy Hunt, Nelson (W.A.A.F.), and Shirley Hunt (Motueka). Mr Wilson Hunt, Christchurch, is a brother, and Mrs N. Keating, New Plymouth, a sister.

The funeral was exceptionally large and the many beautiful floral wreaths bore testimony to the regard in which the late Mr Hunt was held. The Rev. W. A. Beaumont officiated at the graveside, the service concluding with the singing of the hymn "Abide With Me." The bearers were Messrs R. P. Rowling, H. Glover, A. Rowling, D. L. Drummond (Motueka Harbour Board), T. Simpson and A. Boyes

Source: Nelson Evening Mail, 10 August 1942, Page 3.

OBITUARY.

Mr Luke Perham.

The death took place at Kawhia on Friday last, of Mr Luke Perham, who succumbed to a long-standing attack of bronchitis, after suffering acutely from the disease, being confined to his bed for six weeks immediately prior to his death. Mr Perham had attained the ripe ago of 67 years.

The late Mr Perham was only a recent arrival in Kawhia, but even during his short residence here he had made a host of friends, who thought highly of him on account of his many estimable qualities. Mr Perham, who was a native of England, was one of New Zealand's early pioneers, having landed at Akaroa, Canterbury, 48 years ago from Tasmania. He accompanied Mr and Mrs Shadbolt (Mrs Shadbolt was his sister) and they took over the old Travellers' Rest Hotel, one of the oldest hotels on the Peninsula. Mr Perham afterwards took to farming, and remained on the land he had taken up until last August, when he sold out on account of ill health and came to reside at Kawhia, his wife purchasing a farm at Oparau and leasing the hotel Moana. The deceased at one time followed the calling of a digger, taking part in the "rushes "in the early days of Bendigo (Victoria) and later on to Dunedin, and his reminiscences of the stirring times then experienced have been listened to with interest by many of his friends. In his early life Mr Perham was a very powerful man, and his prowess as an oarsman is well known to people who knew him in those days. He was an active member of the Akaroa Boating Club, and had rowed in many exciting races, principally with the Brough Bros., and his championship cups are at the present time one of the greatest treasures of the family.

Mr Perham was married in 1864, and thirteen children were the issue of the marriage, all of which survive him excepting the first and third sons, the latter being killed in the South African War. The widow, five daughters and one son reside at Kawhia, and they have the deepest sympathy of residents in their bereavement.

The interment took place on Saturday afternoon, the funeral being a lengthy one. The coffin was entirely covered with beautiful wreaths. The Rev. Mr Davidson read the burial service. - Kawhia Settler.

Source: Feilding Star, 9 March 1905, Page 4.

OBITUARY.

'Cheeky bugger' had a daredevil streak

Robin Carnachan's daughters would describe the Taranaki man as incredibly stubborn, but it was that stubbornness that saw him make it to 83.

It's also a trait that both daughters Leanne Murray and Tracey Schoemaker say they've inherited.

Carnachan, who died on February 17, had been through a heart attack, prostate cancer, Parkinson's disease and diabetes over the last 30 years but pulled through all of them because he still had things he wanted to achieve - such as skydiving, which he ticked off his bucket list at age 69.

"He always wanted to do a tandem skydive and mum said 'over my dead body'," Murray said.

So when his wife, Chrissy, died 15 years ago he became a bit of a daredevil. Not only did he go skydiving, he bungee jumped off the Auckland Harbour Bridge and did the jump off the Sky Tower. "He had the biggest grin on his face."

Carnachan was born in Waihi but moved to Taranaki as a toddler and went to Central School and later New Plymouth Boys' High School.

When he left school he had a plethora of jobs but there were two that left lasting impressions. The first was as a driver for Tip Top icecream because that was where he met his beloved Chrissy.

"She was at the Spurdle Dairy and he'd time his deliveries just right because he thought she was a bit of all right," Murray said. "From what we hear it was love at first sight."

Then in 1985 he began working at the Shell Service Station in Inglewood, now Z, where he would stay for 20 years and become very well known in the community.

"He loved that job because he got to talk to people all day," Schoemaker said.

"He's a cheeky bugger, that's what we got told all the time," Murray added.

Carnachan was a doting grandfather to his five grandkids. He always had treats on hand for them and made them certificates, which was a tradition his wife started but Carnachan carried on.

After a stroke Carnachan reluctantly moved into Marinoto Rest Home in Inglewood, where he'd still have treats around for when the grandkids visited despite having diabetes.

It didn't take long until he had the staff wrapped around his finger and he would get garlic bread for breakfast.

"He called it home and they were his family and he gave the nurses cheek," Schoemaker said.

Robin Carnachan: October 17, 1936 - February 17, 2020.

Source: Taranaki Daily News, 26 Feb 2020.

OBITUARY.

BARRY ERRINGTON

Barry Errington, 53, chief executive officer of Bay Area Los Angeles Express Trucking Co., died Friday at his home in Isleton.

Mr. Errington, a native of Ontario, Canada, was a former resident of San Mateo and a member of the California Bass Fish Association, Rio Vista Chapter.

He is survived by his wife, Connie, a son, Brent, of Belmont; a stepson, Larry Theuson of San Mateo; two daughters, Lynda Soenderop of Canada and Carol Snyder of Belmont; two step-daughters, Jackie Lyons of Burlingame and Jennie Thuesen of Isleton; a brother Joe, of Canada; and two grandchildren.

Memorial services will be conducted tonight 7 o'clock at C.E. Stewart Chapel in Rio Vista.

The family prefers donations to the American Diabetes Association, 231 E. Millbrae Ave., Millbrae, 94030.

Source: San Mateo Times, Monday, December 12, 1988 page D2

OBITUARY.

Barry Joseph "Joe" Errington

ERRINGTON, Barry Joseph "Joe" Of Parksville, BC

It is with great sadness that the family announces the sudden passing of their beloved "Joe" on September 8, 2006 at the age of 59 years. Joe is survived by his son Jack of Courtenay, BC; daughter Julie (Jamie) Gagnon of Surrey, BC; granddaughter Jenna Gagnon; his loving wife of 35 years and caring friend Fran Errington of Parksville, BC; brother Harold Kirby Errington of Innisfil, ON and sister Elinor Kirby of Georgian Bay, ON.

A Funeral Service was held on Tuesday, September 12, 2006 at 2:00pm at Yates Funeral Service & Crematorium, Parksville, BC with Reverend Foster Freed officiating.

If one so wishes, donations in Joe's memory may be made to Nanaimo & District Hospital Foundation, 1200 Dufferin Place, Nanaimo, BC V9S 2B7

YATES FUNERAL SERVICE & CREMATORIUM(248-5859) in care of arrangements.

Source: Parksville Qualicum Beach News, Sep 20, 2006

OBITUARY.

Harold Kirby ERRINGTON

It is with great sadness that the family announces the passing of Harold on Friday, February 1, 2019 at Georgian Bay General Hospital, with his loving family by his side. Harold was born in Toronto on June 24, 1943. Harold is predeceased by his son Eddie Errington and his brother Joseph Errington. He is survived by his daughter Cheryl Storm, and his sons Jeremiah (Jenn) and Charles Errington along with his two granddaughters, his loving sister Elinor Kirby (Jeff Seaton), and many nieces and nephews. Harold was an employee of Canada Post for 35 years and a proud member of the Royal Canadian Navy. He was a devoted member of the Penetanguishene Legion Branch 68. Harry enjoyed singing and listening to country music, especially that of his good friend George Hamilton IV, playing and refereeing hockey as well as many other sports. He was also an avid Blue Jays fan. He was a tireless volunteer with seniors, CHATS, Special Olympics, OSPCA, and many other charitable organizations. Harry will be remembered fondly by his family and friends as a colourful character with many stories to tell. At Harry's request, cremation has already taken place and a Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, May 10, 2019 in the spring at the Penetanguishene Legion. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to the OSPCA Midland branch.

Source: Thornbury Courier-Herald, February 20, 2019

OBITUARY.

Maxine Sievers

Maxine Sievers, 70, of Palm Desert, CA passed away June 17, 2007 in Rancho Mirage, CA of complications due to cancer. Maxine was born February 24, 1937 to Harold and Mildred Hill in Toronto, Canada. Beloved wife of Robert Sievers, they married on April 26, 1989 in Indio, CA. She was an accomplished pianist, organist, and avid golfer with two holes in one. She was a member of Santa Rosa Country Club and Palm Desert Greens Country Club, both of Palm Desert. Maxine is survived by her loving children, Lynda Soenderop of Belle Ewart Ontario, Canada; Carol Snyder of Sonoma, CA, Brent Errington of San Carlos, CA; her stepchildren, John Sievers of Maryville, TN, Robin Powers of Warren, OR, and Scott Sievers of Roseville, CA; and 18 grandchildren. A private family service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the charity of your choice.

Source: The Desert Sun, June 20, 2007

OBITUARY.

MBS A. A. WOODING

(THE PRESS Special Service.)
BLENHEIM, May 24.

The death occurred yesterday of Mrs Alice Amy Wooding, wife of Mr A. R. Wooding, of Ward. Mrs Wooding was closely associated with the early development of the Starborough settlement, coming to the Marlborough district with her husband 31 years ago, and was widely known and respected. She was a keen worker for the. Anglican Church and was a member of the Ward Women's Institute and Mothers' Union.

Mrs Wooding is survived by her husband, three sons, Messrs Percy and Arthur Wooding (Ward), and Reginald Wooding (Greymouth), and four daughters. Misses Olive, Eileen, and Muriel Wooding (Ward), and Mrs E. Roberts (Culverden).

Mrs Wooding, who was in her fifty-eighth year, was a daughter of the late Mr William Andrews, of Christchurch. There are four brothers, Messrs N. S. Andrews (Ward). W. G. Andrews (Seddon), O. Andrews (Tauranga), and R. S. Andrews (Christchurch). Miss O. Andrews (Christchurch) is a sister. The interment will take place at the Ward cemetery to-morrow afternoon.

Source: The Press, Volume LXXIV, Issue 22410, 25 May 1938.

OBITUARY.

MR AMBROSE RHODES.

There passed away yesterday morning at the Christchurch Hospital in his seventy-sixth year Mr Ambrose Rhodes, third son of the late Mr Israel Rhodes of Flea Bay after a long illness. Mr Rhodes was born at Flea Bay and took up farming as an occupation, at one time working the Stoney Bay property which he sold to the late Mr George Armstrong. Mr Rhodes was of a very genial bright disposition, being much liked by everyone. He married Miss Chapman of Little River and leaves a widow, two sons Messrs Edward Rhodes of Ashburton and Stanley Rhodes of Wainui and four daughters Mesdames W. McKay (Le Bons), Jim Stewart (Barry's Bay), Alex Stewart (Wainui), and J. McQueen (Little River). Another daughter Mrs Allan Wright predeceased him some years ago.

Source: Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume L Issue 5144, 5 February 1926.