PASSING OF CHURCHMAN, BARRISTER AND SOLDIER

Waiapu Church Gazette, Volume 35, Issue 3, 1 May 1944, Page 5

PASSING OF CHURCHMAN, BARRISTER AND SOLDIER

The passing of Mr. Hildebrand Holderness, churchman, barrister and soldier was a marked loss to the Diocese of Waiapu to whom he gave devoted service for many years. A map of strong convictions he has left a mark, on the community by his moral courage, outspoken criticisms and his kindly courtesy. . He occupied > a leading place m several spheres of the community m Hastings. - -- ;■'■"'■■'.: Born m Christchurch 63 years; ago he jvas educated at Christ's College and later at Canterbury College. Entering the legal profession at Wanganui he moved to Hastings m 1907 where he set. up m practice on his own account. On. his returfi from the war 1914-18 he resumed the practice of his profession and m recent years was m partnership with Mr A. W. Parkinson. A man of outstanding integrity he carried out his duties m the best traditions: of the legal profession m, New Zealand. For many years lie gaye active service to St. Matthew's Church. He was a member of the Waiapu' "By nod since 1925 during which period he was. a member of Standing Committee for nine years. He /was chairman of the Finance Committee from 1927 until he retired m 1935. In 1925 he was appointed Church Advocate and became Chancellor of the Diocese m 1933. He was thus regarded as the leading layman of the Diocese. He championed many progressive changes and introduced several bills by which the legislation of the Church was brought up-to-date. On one occasion he represented the Diocese at General Synod. In addition to his valuable services to his church, Mr. Holderness was ah outstanding figure m HaWke's-' Bay m military affairs. He was m command of the 9th H.B. Territorial Regiment m 1907 and again for four years following . his return from active service m France. He joined the N.Z.E.F. m 1915 rising to the rank of Lieut-Colonel. He was for 13 years president of the R.S.A. m Hastings and an ex- vice-president of the Association m New Zealand. He was also a recipient of the Certificate of Merit. As a member of the H.B. War Relief Association he did valuable work for the Diggersy being affectionately known as "The Diggers' Friend." At the time of the earthquake his leadership was immediately recognised by his. selection as chairman of the Citizens' Relief Committee. , , Following a service at St. Matthew's Church the burial took place at Hastings being largely attendedJß^ all sections of the community.