OBITUARY.

Grey River Argus, 5 June 1922, Page 8

OBITUARY.

WILLIAM MEATES. Very general regret was expressed yesterday in Greymonth when it was learned that Air William Anthony Meates, one of the pioneer residents of the district, had parsed away at 7 a.m., after a long and pa nful illness. A native of Birchfield, \id 'a. where he was born 64 years ago, the late Mr Aleates came with his parents to Greyinoutli when he was only six years of age. In the early days his parents were well-known residents here, the late William Aleates, and more especially Airs (“Granny”) Meates. After residing till manhood in Greymonth, the deceased engaged in gold mining, and was one of the best-known and most experienced prospectors on the Coast. He it was who in 1908, when prospecting in the Inangahua district, discovered the lead which is now being worked at the Blackwater Aline. For the past seven or eight years, with his wife ami family, he had resided in Greymouth, rmd was prominently identified with several organisations. He was a founder of the Greymouth Old Boys Association, and for several years held Hie office of president, retaining it until his death. For a number of years also he was vice-president of the Greymoutu Port Waterside Workers’ Union. II? held office also as vice-president and executive member of the St. Columba Club. A man of most genial nature, he made friends of all who knew him, and his passing will be sincerely regretted by a great many West Coasters. Besides a widow, he leaves a daughter (Aliss Alary Meates, of the staff of Air Kim Williams), and four sons: William (Moaiia), John (Railway Department, Greymouth), Frank (Post Office, Blackball), and Vincent (St. Bedes College, Christchurch). He also has a nephew, Air Wills, in Wellington. The funeral takes pla>-e to-morrow, being preceded by Requiem Alass at St. Patrick’s KJliurch.