OBITUARY

Dominion, Volume 22, Issue 92, 12 January 1929, Page 6

OBITUARY

MR. J. P. PRENTICE

Masterton, January 10.

The death occurred last evening at the Masterton Hospital of Mr. Joseph Philip Prentice, one of the few remaining early settlers of Masterton. Deceased was born in Wellington in 1857, coming to Masterton when a lad and remaining here ever since, with the exception of the last two years, when he resided in various parts of the Wairarapa and Forty Mile Bush districts. In his early life the late Mr. Prentice received farm training, but later entered into the building trade, developing a successful business, his interest in which he disposed of just before the Great War broke out. He always took an active interest in the public life of the district, and was one of the original directors of the Workers’ Mutual Benefit Building (Society, an office he held for thirty years, while it was largely through his efforts that the No. 2 Society was formed. For many years deceased was an active member of the Masterton Fire Brigade, filling every office in that body 7 and being captain for many years. He was a member of the Masterton Borough Council for six years, during which time he represented the council op the Fire Board, while it was largely due to his efforts that the municipal playing area was established in the Masterton Park. He was connected with the early establishment work of the Wairarapa High School and was also connected -with the Masterton A, and P. Association, the Masterton Racing Club, the 1.0. R. (passing through every office in the local lodge), and the councils of various athletic bodies. About three years ago the late Mr. Prentice retired from business and public life owing to ill-health, since which time his health gradually declined. In November last he suffered a serious breakdown and was taken to the Masterton Hospital. Deceased is survived by one son, Mr, A, 13. Prentice, one daughter, Miss E. C. Prentice, a brother, Mr.- A- C. Prentice, of Auckland, apd three sisters, Mesdames R. Tankersley, J. Walker and Miss E. J, Prentice, all resident in Masterton. The funeral will take place to-morrow. Widespread regret ip felt at the passing of Mr. Prentice.