OBITUARY

Southland Times, Issue 23897, 16 August 1939, Page 6

OBITUARY

MR JOHN H. THOMAS The death occurred in Invercargill yesterday of Mr John Henry Thomas, of Waikiwi, who had been a well-known florist in Invercargill for about 16 years. Mr Thomas was an enthusiastic sportsman until he became ill about two years ago. He was interested in golf, fishing, shotting and wrestling. He was also keenly interested in acclimatization work.

Before coming to Invercargill Mr Thomas was well known in the Western District. For about 10 years he was the proprietor of a motor garage at Otautau and when he sold tiffs business, he came to Invercargill and with his brother, Mr Percy Thomas, founded the florist business of Thomas Bros. About seven years ago Mr J. H. Thomas took complete control of the business. Mr Thomas was a member of the Southland Acclimatization Society for many years and also a member of the council of the society and of the hatchery' committee. He had a valuable knowledge of fishing and shooting in the province. An enthusiastic golfer, he was a member of the Invercargill Club for many years. He was also active on the administrative side, being a former member of the committee. Mr Thomas was one of the original guarantors of the Southland Wrestling Association when that organization was founded in Invercargill. Mr Thomas, who was a son of Mr and Mrs J. Thomas, of Ashburton, married Miss Edith Elizabeth Martin, 23 years ago and he is survived by her and one daughter, Miss Phyllis Thomas. He is also survived by three brothers, Messrs Percy Thomas (West Plains), George Thomas and Sydney Thomas (Ashburton) and one sister, Miss Elsie Thomas (Coromandel). MR LOUIS HOLDEN (United Press Association) AUCKLAND, August 15. The death has occurred of Mr Louis Holden, aged 85, formerly a wellknown breeder of pedigree Polled Angus cattle. Mr Holden was born in India and farmed successfully at Feilding and Te Aroha. He served with the Y.M.C.A. in France during the Great War. THE REV. S. W. CURRIE (United Press Association) DUNEDIN, August 15. The death occurred today of the Rev. Samuel W. Currie, M.A., D.D., at the age of 82. Mr Currie was closely associated with the Presbyterian Church at Balclutha, retiring in 1925 after being there for 40 years.