Obituary

Manawatu Times, Volume 61, Issue 46, 25 February 1936, Page 5

Obituary

ME CHARLES J. EAST,

There passed away on Friday last, after a protracted illness, Mr Charles James East, of Carroll street, Palmerston North. Of a quiet, unassuming nature he had endeared himself to a wide circle of friends. He was a man of high principles, a devoted Christian, and one whose sterling character was apparent to all who had the privilege of knowing him. For the past seventeen years he had carried on his profession of music teaching in and around the city. Keenly interested in music and the cultural training to be derived from its study, he associated himself with various organisations for the furtherance of the art. His early career was pursued in Gisborne where he was at different periods organist and choirmaster of Bright Street Methodist and St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Churches. Since coming to Palmerston North he had been an active worker in St. Paul’s Methodist Church and particularly so in the Sunday school where he was assistant superintendent and leader of a senior boys’ class. His long service in Sunday school work extending over a period of 30 years testified to the importance he placed on the training of the youth of the community. The affection in which he was held by all his old pupils and friends was demonstrated by the many beautiful floral tributes and letters of condolence received. The services held on Sunday last both at the residence and at Kelvin Grove cemetery were conducted by Kevt A. N. Scottcr, 8.A., a contemporary and intimate friend of the deceased during his wholo lifetime. His Masonic brethren were in large attendance at the funeral. The Worshipful Master assisted by Past Masters conducted the solemn Masonic service at the graveside. Messrs W. B. Cameron, C. B. Stiles, H. Bennett, C. Teppett, C. B. Williamson and A. Newman officiated as pall-bear-ers. Mr East leaves a widow and two brothers, Messrs L. E. East and A. F. D. East to cherish his memory. At a gathering of teachers of St. Paul’s Methodist Church Sunday school, Mr G. H.'Stiles made touching reference to the passing of one who had given great service to the school, the late Mr C. J. East. After 'a long and trying illness, Mr Stiles said, their friend and co-worker had found rest and had passed on to a higher' sphere of service. A silent vote of condolence with the- relatives was passed, the

teachers for a moment standing, as a tribute to their departed brother, and in sympathy with .tho bereaved.... ...