OBITUARY

Grey River Argus, 23 March 1945, Page 3

OBITUARY

MR JESSE STEER

The death occurred at his home at Riccarton, Christchurch, yesterday, oi Mr Jesse Steer, who was formerly a prominent figure in the public and commercial life of Greymouth, and played an active part in the development of the town and district. He had been ailing for about six months. Mr S'teer was born in Nelson in 1863, and educated at Richmond, where he ..worked in the grocery business for %bout five years. He later came to Greymouth, and in 1882 entered the employment of Mr A. Hildebrand, of whose business he subsequently became manager. Two years after Mr Hildebrand’s death in 189-1, Mr Steer joined the firm. More than 20 years ago the business was transferred from Boundary Street to Tamui Street, and became the Mawhera Meat Company, Mr Steer continuing as principal ol Lhe firm till he retired some years ago and went to live in Christchurch. The late Mr Steer for many years was a leading figure in local governmental affairs. He was Mayor of Greymouth during 1903. He was the first chairman of the Greymouth Fire Board, which position he held when the present central fire station was opened, and retained until he retired prior to his departure for Christchurch. He

was also for many years Chairman of the Greymouth Harbour Board, succeeding the late Mr Felix Campbell. Mr Steer took an interest in national politics, and as a supporter of Hie Reform Government during the term of the late Rt. Hon. W. F. Massey Mr S'teer carried the banner of the’ Party in the Westkind electorate as the candidate in the 1922 General Election, standing against the present Member for the district, Hon. J. O’Brien, and the former Member, Mr T E y" Seddon. As a Freemason he also was a leading spirit in the Greymouth Lodge E.C., having been District Grand Master for more than 40 vears a term not exceeded by any other’ holder of such office in the EnP-lish Masonic constitution.. Mr Steer is survived by his wife, nnri other members of the family include a son, Mr W. E. J’. Steer, Manager of Greymouth Motors, Ltd., and of the Greymouth Harbour Board and two daughters, Mrs Grant, nf Timaru. and Mrs Walker. 'Die funeral will take place at the Christchurch Crematorium to-mor-of sympathy with the revives of Mr Steer was passed at nst evening’s meeting of the Greymouth Borough Council, the Mayor ?Urr F A. Kitchingham) referring „monistically to the long and efficient rublfe service rendered by Mr Steer, also by his wife and daughters, 1 I FI bad always been helpful in matI te h r “ XSlng the public welfare.