OBITUARY

Waikato Independent, Volume XXXI, Issue 2448, 5 March 1931, Page 4

OBITUARY

MR JOHN FERGUSON AN OLD IDENTITY PASSES. The Cambridge district is much the poorer to-day for the passing of yet one more member of the fast thinning ranks of the old identities, and of one who has ever taken an active interest in the welfare of this borough. In the death of Mr John Ferguson, which occurred at his residence, Hamilton Road on Tuesday afternoon, after a long illness, Cambridge lost one who, by his endeavours, came to be looked upon as one of the fathers of the Borough. The late Air Ferguson was born in Glasgow, in 1846, and was 86 years of age. Ho was married at Pokeno in 1873, his bride being Miss Agnes Ci'ickett. It was about the year that Air and Airs Ferguson came to the district and took up farming in the Hautapu district. In 1883 he established the well-known coach and wheelwright business in Lake Street, which later became the well-known firm of John Ferguson and Sons. The late Air Ferguson earned the right to be regarded as one of the fathers of Cambridge, for in the long years lie had lived in this district he wasever ready to give of his services in the general welfare of the town, Borough and district. A Justice of the Peace, Air Ferguson was also one of the members of the first Borough Council. He was one of the early •members of the Cambridge Domain Board and following the death of the “father” of the Domain (Air Thomas AVclls) became chairman. Air Ferguson had the unique record of being a member of the board for 30 years, 26 of which he served in the capacity of chairman, retiring last February. The Cambridge Domain was Air Ferguson’s love and chief hobby, and he was never so happy as when he was- engaged with its activities. Deceased was a member of the Cambridge School committee for a number of years; also Patron of the Bowling Club- and one of its foundation members; Past Alastcr of Lodge Alpha and patron and president of other societies in the Borough. The late Air Ferguson was a staunch* Presbyterian and was senior elder at the time of his death.

The last few years saw Air Ferguson’s health gradually fail, and following a long illness, which lie bore with remarkable fortitude, ho passed away peacefully, a fitting end to a life of activity spent to the best purpose. The late Air Ferguson is survived by his widow and family of four sons and two daughters. They are: Messrs Hugh J. H. (Bert) R. AY. (Robin) of Cambridge, and ,C. 8., of Wellington; also Airs Bruce Aluir, of Gisborne and Aliss Ferguson, of Cambridge. There are IS grandchildren. The funeral, which was of a semiprivate 'nature, was held yesterday morning, interment being at the Cambridge cemetery. LATE MRS R. HANNON. lAIPRESSIVE FUNERAL ,SERVICE. The funeral of the late Airs R. Hannon took place in the Cambridge cemetery on Tuesday. afternoon. Prior to the cortege leaving the house a very impressive service was conducted by Archdeacon Bell. A large number of friends from all of the North Island were present, and every Racing and Trotting Club in the. South Auckland province was represented. The large number of beautiful wreaths testified to the high esteem in which the late Airs Hannon was held.