MR JAMES DICK

Otago Daily Times, Issue 22203, 5 March 1934, Page 14

MR JAMES DICK

TRIBUTE AT FIRST CHURCH At First Church yesterday morning reference was made to the passing of a well-known member of the congregation in Mr Janies Dick, whose death occurred during the week. The preacher • was the Rev. W. Allen Stevely, -and thore were present at the service directors and members of the staff of the Drapery Supply Association. • , After a-discourse on the strength and comfort .of. the Divine sympathy, Mr Stevely paid an inspiring tribute to the memory of Mr James Dick, who was ati elder and had been associated wifh.tha congregation of First Church for many years. ;"On Thursday of last week," said Mr Stevely, "it came as a shock to many to learn of the sudden death of our elder and fellow-member, Mr James Dick. His passing has removed a well-known and beloved member of the business community of our city. Born at Dyke-by-Forres on October 4, 1855, he commenced his apprenticeship to the softgoods trade in Nairn. In 1881 Mr Dick arrived in New Zealand, and nine years later established the business known to-day as the Drapery Supply Association. The date of his death was the forty-fourth anniversary of the founding o'f this business. The beauty and inspiration of Mr Dick's life and character are an abiding influence in three directions. In business circles he was highly respected, and has left an honoured name. His integrity and high ideals endeared him to all. His deep sympathy and kindly understanding appealed to the hearts of all associated with him. In the affairs of the world ho was a Christian gentleman. He loved j the Church and the worship of the sanctuary, and often expressed his appreciation of the, inspiration he drew from fellowship with its members. He frequently recalled its early influence on his life, and often spoke of the teachers, and faithful men whose words and lives had made a lasting impression on his youthful mind.

"For 32 years he served faithfully in the eldership, and was one of the oldest members of the committee of the Presbyterian Social Service Association. At all times he had a keen interest in matters related to the welfare of our city and Dominion. His home was very dear to him, and his presence was a bene-, diqtion to his loved ones there. His patient, tender care and love to his devoted wife in her days of failing strength was one of the great and beautiful things of this world, and so often made her strength perfect in weakness. He wa,s a Christian father whose children riae

up and called him blessed. .The .secret of his stropg character, winsome person? ality, and inspiring sympathy was a child; like faith in God. He kept himself in the sunshine of the love of Jesus Christ He was a man of prayer arid a man of faith. Over 60 years of active busir ness life dimmed not the, vision of the great ideals and lessened riot his naturally alert arid active disposition. He died at his post. On Sunday last ho worshipped with us. On the day prior to his death be attended his officeJ

"We shall miss tis kindlypresent*) and his cheering smile. We thank God fo> His gift, for this life of devoted service, for him who has been callel'to higher service. We commendhis wilow, children and grandchildren to; the consolation of the Heavenly Father, and pray that He Who wept by the graveside of an earthly friend will comfort and keep their hearts till the day breaks and the shadows flee away." •■.,: After the address Dr V. E. Galway playfdyrvith: appropriate sympathy 'The Flowers of the Forest."'