OF HON. JAS. McGOWAN.

Ohinemuri Gazette, Volume XXIII, Issue 2938, 8 May 1912, Page 2

OF HON. JAS. McGOWAN.

FOUND DEAD IN LAVATORY.

The Hon. J. McGowan died suddenly yesterday at the Royal Hotel, Thames, where he had resided for many years. About 10.15 a.m. Mr A Wilson, a commercial traveller, went to one of the lavatories outside the main building and opening the door was horrified to sec the Hori. J. McGowan lying back as though dead. Assistance was at once secured, but it was realised that the hon. gentleman had passed away. Mr J. Quinn", the proprietor ot the hotel, was summoned, and he, with Mr Reitz (a visitor from Australia) and Mr H. Clinker, carried the body to the hotel. . Medical assistance was at once telephoned for, and Dr Walshe was soon on his way to the hotel.

Meanwhile the services of Miss Stewart (formerly matron of the Thames Hospital) who was on a visit to Thames, were requistioned, but it was recognised that the unfortunate gentleman was beyond human aid; Heart failure is supposed to be the cause of death. The news of the sudden demise of the Hon. J. McGowan caused quite a shock throughout the district, and expressions of regret were universal. The hon. gentleman was present at the gathering to farewell Mr J. Watson and was in his best form. He appeared to.be in good health yesterday morning, and chatted cheerily to many friends. The Hon. Mr McGowan, who was unmarried, was 71 years of age. His sister resides in the Waikato district: