OBITUARY

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXVI, 7 May 1934, Page 4

OBITUARY

SIR H. F. WIGRAM “FATHER OF AVIATION” (By Telegraph—Press Association) CHRISTCHURCH, This Day. Known as the “Father of aviation in New Zealand,” and as a most generous and far-siglited benefactor of the community, Sir Henry Francis Wigram, for more than 50 years a resident of Christchurch City, died at liis home early on Sunday after a week’s illness. He was the first Mayor of Greater Christchurch, and was a member of the Legislative Council for 17 years. He was the prime mover, in the founding of New Zealand’s air force. He was the donor of magnificent gifts to the State, and a strong supporter of many charities in Christchurch. Sir Henry was a notable figure in the life both of the City and the Dominion. PUBLIC-SPIRITED MAN PRIME MINISTER’S TRIBUTE AUCKLAND, This Day. “I am extremely sorry to hear of the death of Sir Henry Wigram, for he was one of the most public-spirited men we have had in Christchurch, and a man for whom I have always had the highest respect,” said Mr Forbes wlien the news of Sir Henry’s death was conveyed to him shortly before he left for Wellington. “Sir Henry was one of our best citizens, and a man of whom Christchurch and New Zealand had every reason to be proud. His death is a great loss to the community, but he leaves behind a very fine record of citizenship.”

MR W. P. McGIRR WELLINGTON, This Day. The death is announced of Mr W. P. McGirr, one of Wellington’s best known cricketers of fifty years ago, and father of Mr H. M. McGirr, New Zealand cricket representative (now of Nelson), and Mr L. W. McGirr, New Zealand representative of Association football.