OBITUARY

Dunstan Times, 21 October 1935, Page 5

OBITUARY

Mr Robt. McSkimming After a long and useful life there passed away at his residence at Patearoa or Thursday night last, Mr Robert McSkim ming, a familiar figure in Central Otago for over half a century. This genial gentleman who was esteemed by all sections of the community, was in his 80th year. A fine athlete himself, he at all times took a keen interest in all branches of sport. As starter to the Vincent Jockey Club’s races for many years, Mr McSkimming was very popular and remarkably successful, while in his own district he was an enthusiastic supporter of cricket, football and other games. He arrived in New Zealand from Melbourne when only a lad, and was educated at Dunedin. After leaving Dunedin he took up farming in the Patearoa district where he very soon became widely and favourably known for his sterling worth. His two youngest ions, Ronald and Hector, are well-known Rugby Football players, and both have represented Otago. His eldest son, Robert, was killed in the Great War, and he is survived by four sons and three daughters. Mr Allan McSkimming is a teacher of elocution in Auckland and Mr F. McSkimming was associated with his father on the , farm at Patearoa. Two of the daughters are married and re- : aide at Christchurch and the other is unmarriedMr Jeffery Aston. The sad and tragically sudden death took place at Moa Creek on Friday last of Mr Jeffery Aston, a well-know and popular farmer of the district Of a quiet and nnaesuming nature . ''Jeff' was well liked by all who - knew him, and his untimely • death he was only In his 26th ■ year—is greatly deplored and the heartfelt sympathy of the whole district is extended to the breaved mother (Mrs C. Aston) in her great loss. The funeral took place yesterday afternoon. ______