OBITUARY

Press, Volume XC, Issue 27274, 15 February 1954, Page 10

OBITUARY

MR W. S. KING

The death occurred in Christchurch on Saturday of Mr W. S. King, who, towards the end of last century and in the early 1900’s, was one of New Zealand’s leading riflemen. He was a notable bandsman and contest judge, and expert chess player. ans a sporting and music critic. He was aged 86. Mr King was born in Hastings. England. and came to New Zealand at an early age. He was a leading trombone player, and a member of the Oamaru Garrison Band, which won several contests, some under his conductorship. A journalist by profession. Mr King came to Christchurch in 1902, and was for many years a sporting and music critic for the “Canterbury Times.” Just before World War I, he\ was conductor of the Lyttelton Marine Band. He was a judge at many Dominion band contests, including those held during the Christchurch and Dunedin Exhibitions. He was a life member of the New Zealand Brass Bands’ Association. Between 1896 and 1911, Mr King was recognised as one of New Zealand’s most brilliant riflemen. He won the national championship in 1899, was twice runner-up, and finished among the first 10 competitors on six occasions. His winning margin of 32 points in 1899 has never been bettered. He was a member of the 1897, 1992, and 1911 New Zealand rifle teams that visited England, and also went with two rifle teams to Australia.

Mr King was employed by the “Canterbury Times” and the “Lyttelton Times” from 1902 to 1937. Since his retirement, he had contributed numerous articles to chess publications, notably on chess problems. He was a life member of the Canterbury Chess Club. He was also for a period the conductor of Derry’s Military Band. He is survived by one son. Mr C. L. King (Wellington). and two daughters, Mrs T. Forrest and Miss Adele King (both of Christchurch).