Obituary

Manawatu Times, Volume LIV, Issue 7269, 23 September 1933, Page 4

Obituary

MB JOSEPH WEIGHTMAN There passed peacefully away yesterday morning at the Tcsidenco of his sonj Mr W. B. Weightman, of Awahuri, one of the earliest and most highly respected residents of this district in the person of Mr Joseph Weightman, in his 90th year. The deceased gentleman, with his wife and young family of five, arrived in the sailing vessel Mcropo after a very long and wearisome voyage from England. He and his wife first settled at Woodville, then a dense forest, experiencing all (the vicissitudes and trials all pioneers in a yoirng country were subject to. After apeiioci of 18 months the family moved to Awahuri, where he established a nursery garden business, in later years taking his eldest son into partnership. The business became a large and most prosperous one, widely known throughout the Dominion. For a great number of years Mr Weightman was chairman of the Awahuri School Committee and took a great interest in politics, being always a keen supporter and worker for the old Conservative Party. He was a faithful adherent of the Anglican Church and a regular attendant; until declining years prevented this. Mr Weightman retired from active participation in business 33 years ago 22 years of which were spent on his property, “Birkland,” within three miles of Feilding. Ten years ago he disposed of this’and purchased a home in Derby street. The deceased gentleman leaves a family of nine. Three sons and a daughter (Mrs J. Freeklington) are well-known residents of the district. Mrs Weightman predeceased lier Jiusband by lo years.