OBITUARY

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXIII, Issue 22532, 24 September 1936, Page 14

OBITUARY

ME. JOHN STOEMONT ' NOTED AUCKLAND BAKER WIDE SPORTS INTERESTS The death occurred Inst evening of Mr. John Stormont, founder of the Auckland bakery firm of Stormont's, Limited, nt the age of 73. Mr. Stormont was engaged, in the bakery business all his life and only three weeks ago spent his last nights in activ6 bread making. Born in Omagli, County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, on August 1, 1863, Mr. Stormont was taken to Dundee, Scotland, with his parents at the age of two. When 10 years old he was apprenticed to a local baker. Tn 1895 he commenced business on his own account and the following year won the London Polytechnic Bakery and National Guild's baking contest against numerous competitors. The winning of this contest enabled Mr. Stormont to' study his trade at Boston, United States, and Barcelona, Spain. After short stays in both these eities Mr. Stormont returned to Dundco, where he resumed his business. Ho also contributed articles to trade publications. Successes in Competitions In 1907 Air. Stormont came to New Zealand. He was employed by a Devonport baker until 1914, and in that year, just six weeks before the outbreak of the Great War, he established Stormont's, Limited. In subsequent years he won nearly 30 New Zealand baking contests, and, in 1927, he competed personally in the London Bakers' Exhibition, securing a first prizo. Although ho took no part in local body activities, Mr. Stormont was keenly interested in sports. He was a trustee of the Auckland Rugby League and was a part donor of the Stormont Memorial Shield competed for in that code. He also was president of the Rocky Nook BoAvling Club and a member of the Ponsonby Bowling Club, and formerly was connected with the Ponsonby Swimming Club. He was a Freemason under the English Constitution. Gardening was his chief hobby. Rugby League Tribute Mr. Stormont was married at St. Mary's Church, Battersea, London, in June, 1890. Ho is survived by his wife and seven sons. There are 16 grandchildren. With the exception of the youngest, all Mr. Stormont's sons are married, and all are employed with Stormont's, Limited.. "I regret to have to report the passing of Mr. John Stormont, who has taken a great part in our game," said Mr. G. Grey Campbell, chairman of the Auckland Pugbv League, at a meeting of the hoard of control last evening. "Mr. Stormont was a man among men, one whoso word in the business as well as in the sports world was his bond. He was held in high esteem by all with whom he came in contact." On the motion of Mr. Campbell, a ,yote of condolence with Mr. Stormont's family was passed, the meeting standing. .