MR. J. L. BRUCE

Evening Post, Volume CXI, Issue 21, 26 January 1931, Page 10

MR. J. L. BRUCE

The death occurred recently at his residence, Kongotai terrace, after a somewhat protracted illness, of Mr.

John Leslie Bruce. , . The late Mr. Bruce, who was in his seventhy-seeond year, arrived in New Zealand forty-nine years ago, and was in business in Manners street for some time. Mr. Bruce had been brought up to farm life in Scotland, and was recognised as an authority on stock breeding, and management generally. In 1-891 lie entered the service of the Government in what was the nucleus of the present Department of Agriculture, and during a term of service of close on -40 years he'occupied positions as Inspector of Stock ,at Palmerston (Otago), and Balclutha, Inspector-in-Charge at Dunedin, Assistant Director of the' Live Stock Division, and Superintendent of Experimental Farms attached to the Department of Agriculture. Mr. Bruce's experienced knowledge of farm and stock management was also availed of by the Departments of Prisons and Health, respectively, in the supervision of the farming operations of these departments at prison farms and sanatoria, and his advice was greatly appreciated. In 1908 Mr. Bruce, together with Mr. J. H. Dobsbn, of the Public .Works Department, was requested by the Government to report on the question of irrigation in. Central Otago, and a very valuable report was presented. In 1913 Mr. Bruce visited India on behalf of the Department of Agriculture, particularly in regard to the sterilisation of bonedust, and while there arranged for the appointment of an honorary agent to act in New Zealand's interests.

Mr. Bruce was an active member of St. John's Presbyterian Church, and for a number of years was on the Board of Management; He was also for some years a member' of Lodge Waterloo, No. 13, N.Z.C.

The late Mr. Bruce leaves a widow, two sous and two daughters. The funeral took place at Karori on Friday, the Rev. Dr. Gibb conducting a short service at the residence and at the grave side. The Departments of Agriculture, Prisons, and Health were represented, as also was St. John's Presbyterian Church. The Mayor (Mr. G. A. Troup) was also present.