OBITUARY

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 67, Issue 243, 26 July 1947, Page 6

OBITUARY

MR WILLIAM J. ROBERTSON One of the keenest sportsmen in in the Ashburton County, Mr William James Robertson, of Anama, passed away this morning. He was a son of the late Mr and Mrs George Mclntosh Robertson, a pioneering "family who came to Winehmore in 1592. He was in his 69th year. Mr Robertson’s prowess in sporting circles earlier in the century will be well rejnembered. A keen boxer, he was heavy-weight amateur champion of New Zsaland for two years. Wrestling was another sport in which he excelled, and he took part in contests throughout the South Island. A champion pigeon shot, Mr Robertson followed local shoots with interest, and as recently as a month ago won an event at Methven. Mr Robertson was also one of the pioneer deer-stalkers in Cantebury.

Besides being a member of the Hakatore Club and a weight-thrower, Mr Robertson was an enthusiastic cyclist, taking part in both road and track races.

About 35 years ago, Mr Robertson took up farming in the Anama district, where he was engaged up to the time of his death. The flag at the Ashburton Club and M.S.A. was to-day flown half-mast in memory of Mr Robertson, who was a member. Mr Robertson was a member of the Mount Somers Masonic Lodge. Mr Robertson is survived by his wife, a son (Mr G. M. Robertson, of Anama), and two daughters, Mrs R. Currie (Anama) and Mrs C. Mellard (Christchurch). Mr G. N. Robertson, of Tinwald, is a brother. Mr Robertson was found dead m his bed at his home at Anama. It is understood that no inquest will be necessary. MR F. C. H. WILLIAMS One of the pioneers of the furniture trade in Canterbury, Mr P. C. H. Williams, died at bis residence, Richmond, recently. Born at Tinwald 68 years ago, he had been connected wnth the trade for 47 years. In 1906 he and his brother, Mr A. G. Williams, founded the firm of William Bros., Eaton Place, the factory being one of the first connected to the city’s direct current electric supply. Mr Williams was made a Justice of the Peace in 1930. 1-Ie took a keen interest, in bowling. He was one of the founders of the Shirley Club, winning many championships. He took part in most of the tournaments over a long period. He is survived by his wife, two daughters, three sons, and eight grandchildren.