DEATH OF MR. F. H. STOKES

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 89, Issue 301, 21 December 1945, Page 4

DEATH OF MR. F. H. STOKES

TALENTED WANGANUI MUSICIAN

One of Wanganui's most talented musicians, Mr. Frederick Herbert Stokes, died suddenly on Wednesday night, aged 67 years. Mr. Stokes’ last public engagement was to play at the end-of-year tea of the Wanganui Junior Chamber of Commerce, held at Dustin’s rooms on Tuesday night.

Born in Dunedin, Mr. Stokes was educated at the Christian Brothers’ School in that city. The possessor of a gift for music from his earliest years, he was appointed organist of St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Dunedin, at the early age of 15 and occupied that post with distinction for many years. On leaving school he was immediately appointed musical director of John Fuller and Sons, Theatrical Enterprises, Dunedin, being stationed at the Princess Theatre for 27 consecutive years.

In 1927, Mr. Stokes was appointed musical director of the Majestic Theatre, Wanganui, a post he held until 1929, when progress in cinematograph presentation brought the speaking voice and music to the screen. For the nast 18 years he had been organist of St. Mary’s Catholic Church Wanganui. In addition he had been associated with many city dance bands and orchestras, and had given unselfishly of his time and talents to many deserving causes.

A familiar figure at concerts and entertainments, Mr. Stokes was widely popular on account of his genial personality and his unfailing kindness and sympathy. He is survived by his wife, one son (Mr. S. J. Stokes, Wanganui), and one daughter (Mrs. G. Bourne, Castlecliff). The funeral will be held at the Aramoho Cemetery this morning, after Requiem Mass at St. Mary’s Church, at 10 a.m.