OBITUARY.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 60, Issue 36, 22 November 1939, Page 6

OBITUARY.

MR JOHN deBEER. The death of Mr John deßeer occurred at his residence at Manly, Sydney, last Wednesday. Mr deßeer was very well known in Ashburton business, social and sporting circles for many years, but had lived at Manly’ in retirement over the last ten years. Born in Melbourne 78 or 79 years ago, Mr deßeer came to New Zealand about 50 years ago and took a position in Ashburton with Messrs Friedlander Bros. His sisters, Mesdames Hugo and Max Friedlander, are still living in Sydney and Auckland respectively. After a few years he went to Christchurch, where he was engaged in the jewellery business for several years before returning to Ashburton, about 40 y’ears ago, and establishing a jeweller’s shop in East Street. About 10 years ago he disposed of the business to Mr G. Bowman, gnd went to Sydney. He had been in failing health for some time.

Mr deßeer took an active interest in many local organisations in Ashburton. He was secretary to tlxe Ashburton Masonic Lodge, No, 1811, E.C., for many years, and was a Past Master of that Lodge. He was musically inclined and was a keen supporter of musical societies in the early days. He was timekeeper for sports meetings all over 'the County, and was a member of the Trotting and Racing Clubs in Ashburton. He was an enthusiastic bird fancier at one time and was a member of the Poultry Society. He always took a very keen interest in dogs, being connected for many years with the New Zealand Kennel Club. Mr deßeer was never married.