Obituaries from the Orangeville Banner for 1931 A-I

OBITUARIES FROM THE ORANGEVILLE BANNER FOR THE YEAR 1931

Source: Archives of Ontario - N258 Reel #45

This page is still under construction. More obituaries will be added as I pull them out of the paper. If you have any obituaries to contribute, please email me and I will add them to this page.

BACON | BENNETT | BRAIDEN | BRYAN | CAMPBELL | CLARK | COOK | COOPER | CORNELIUS | CURRY | EDWARDS | FLEMING | GROGAN | HENDERSON | HUNTER | IRWIN

March 26, p.3:James Douglas Bacon -Friends and former neighbors in this district tender their heartfelt sympathy to Mr. and Mrs. Thomas J.C. Bacon, of Fergus, in the great sorrow that came to their home through the sudden death on Sunday March 15th, of their only son, James Douglas, at the tender age of 2 years and 7 months. The little lad was the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Albert Bacon, of Alton, to whom the sympathy of their neighbors is also extended. Service was held at the family home, St. David St., Fergus, on Monday, March 16th, at 7:30 p.m., by Rev. A. Macdonald and Mr. Beecher Parkhouse. The remains were later taken to R. Clark's funeral parlors in Alton, whence the funeral was held to Alton cemetery on Tuesday afternoon, Rev. E.W. McBrien, of Orangeville, officiating. The pallbearers were four uncles, Messrs. Wilbert and Roy Bacon, David Rennick and William Cox. The flowers were beautiful and included: spray, from the Father, Mother and little Sister; pillow, Beatty Bros. and employees; sprays and bouquets, The Grandparents and Family; Mr. and Mrs. T.J. Hamilton, Mr. and Mrs. D.J. Rennick, Mr. and Mrs. J.D. Fuller, Wilma McLean, Ernie Plant, Mr. and Mrs. Ross Plant, Mason family, Mr. and Mrs. Stan Smith and Mr. and Mrs. Bedison, Fergus and Mr. and Mrs. Fred Brewer and family, Ingersoll.

March 19, p.3:John Bennett -John Bennett, a lifelong resident of this district, passed away at his home on lot 2, 2nd line, east, Mono, early on Thursday morning, March 12th, after a short illness from the effects of a stroke. Mr. Bennett, who was 73 years of age, was a son of the late Mr. and Mrs. William Bennett, early residents of Mono, and was born on lot 2, 1st line, east. He was unmarried and was a quiet, industrious man and a good neighbor. He was a stalwart Conservative and for many years was a member and a regular attendant at St. George's Anglican Church, Mono. Latterly he had been identified with St. Mark's Church, Orangeville, He is survived by two brothers, William and Edward Bennett, of Mono, and a sister, Mrs. J.A. Campbell, 1st Avenue. The funeral was held to the Forest Lawn Cemetery on Saturday afternoon. Rev. H.A. West-McMaster con\ducted the service in St. Mark's church. The pallbearers were Messrs Geo. Holmes, Thos. J. Bennett, John Bennett, J.A. Campbell, J.F. Woodland and Harold Bennett.

top of page

March 19, p.3: Sarah Jane (Fraser) Braiden -Mrs. Sarah Jane Braiden, widow of the late Thomas Braiden, at one time a well-known resident of the Orangeville district, died at the home of her son, Mr. John Braiden, lot 20, 4th line, west, Caledon, on Thursday, March 12th, at the age of 76 years and 4 months. Death was caused by heart trouble. The late Mrs. Braiden, whose maiden name was Sarah Jane Fraser, was born at Woodbridge, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Fraser. After her marriage she lived in Amaranth for some years and later in Toronto and at The Maples. Her husband died about 25 years ago and for the last twenty years she had lived with her son, John, in Caledon. She was devoted to her home and family, an excellent neighbor and an exemplary member of Alton United church. Her demise is mourned by three sons, John and Thomas, of Caledon, and James, of Montreal, three brothers, Geo. and David Fraser, Hornings Mills and Alex. Fraser, Mulmur, and one sister. Mrs. Orvis, Shelburne, The funeral was held from her late residence to Greenwood cemetery, on Saturday afternoon, Rev. W.M. Lee, of Alton, conducting the services. The pallbearers were Messrs Alex. Fraser, J. J. Braiden, Fred Braiden, Joshua Bradley, Albert Bacon and W.M. Houston. Floral tributes included a pillow from the family, wreath from Robt. Braiden, Toronto, sheaf from Fred and Misses Violent and May Braiden and a spray of violets from Mrs. Arch. Shaw.

Top of page

June 4, p.2:John Bryan -The death of Mr. John Bryan, ex-Warden of Dufferin County and for many years a prominent figure in Amaranth municipal politics, occurred at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Jos. McGowan, lot 13, 7th line, Amaranth, on Sunday, May 31st. Mr. Bryan, who was in his 64th years, had been suffering for some time from an incurable malady and his demise was by no means unexpected. The deceased was born in the township of King, his parents, the late Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Bryan, moving to Amaranth when he was ten years of age. As a young man he evinced a keen interest in municipal politics and in 1901 was elected to the Amaranth council. After serving for two years as a Councilor, he was elected Reeve, holding this office for two years In 1905 he was one of the successful candidates for county councilor in Division No. 2, which consisted of Amaranth and the east end of East Garafraxa. After two years service in the county council he retired until 1911, when he was again elected the Reeveship of his township. He was re-elected in 1912 and in 1913 was given his third term without opposition and was also elected Warden of the County of Dufferin when the county council met in January. Mr. Bryan's public activities were many-sided. He was a staunch Orangeman and in his time served as Master of his own lodge, L.O.L. 330, Laurel, Master of Farmington District L.O.L. and Master of Dufferin County L.O.L. He was an active member of Laurel Black Preceptory No. 365, a Past President of East Luther Agricultural society and a Past President of Dufferin Liberal-Conservative Association. He was also a member of Laurel Court No. 571 , Canadian Order of Foresters. Mr. Bryan was an active church worker from many years. He was identified with Bell Presbyterian Church, Laurel, of which he had been an elder and Superintendent of the Sabbath School. Genial, offhand, anxious to oblige and well-informed on local and general politics he was always a strong candidate in any election. At one time he was regarded as a probable Conservative candidate for Dufferin.

Mr. Bryan was married to Miss Elizabeth Keys, who died about five years ago. He is survived by a daughter, Mrs. Jos. McGowan., Amaranth, two sons, Clifford and Earl, living in Toronto, one sister, Mrs. T.H. Keys, Grand Valley, and six brothers, James, William and Hugh Bryan, Amaranth, Robert Bryan, East Garafraxa and George and Richard Bryan, Hillsburg.
The funeral, which was held from the home of Mr. and Mrs. McGowan, to Greenwood cemetery on Sunday afternoon, was one of the largest ever witnessed in this district. A short service was held at the home followed by public service in Laurel United church. The services were conducted by Rev. F.J. Dunlop, of Laurel, assisted by Rev. Morrison Sellar, of Grand Valley, and Rev. C. Fry, of Toronto, During the service in the church Mrs. Hunter Nelson and Mr. Lewis Hamilton gave an impressive rendering of the number "God Shall Wipe Away All Teas." The funeral was under Orange auspices and members of Laurel L.O.L and neighboring lodges were present in large numbers. At the grave the burial service of the Order was read by W. Bro., the Rev. F.J Dunlop and W. Bro. Matt. Lanktree. The pallbearers were the six brother of the deceased and the flowerbearers were eight nephews, Harold, Lockwood, Albert, Ernest, Clarence and Lorne Bryan, Stanley Keyes and Wilfrid Grosskurth.
The flowers were: Pillow, the Family; wreaths, L.o.L. 330, Laurel, Brothers and Sisters, Laurel R.B.P. No. 365 and Laurel United church; sprays, Mrs. O and Miss Lillian Grady, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Grosskurth and Wilfred, Mr. and Mrs. Lyon and Mrs., Jane Bryan and family; baskets, Bowling Green Women's Institute, Bowling Green Ladies Aid, Mr. and Mrs. Herb Hughes, Mr. and Mrs. Jos. McGowan sr, and Mr. and Mrs. Thos. H. Keys.

Among the friends from a distance were: Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Keys, Mr. Stanley Keys, Rev. and Mrs. C. Fry, Mrs. Wm. Gray, Mrs. Thos. Bryan and family, Mr. Wilfrid Grosskurth, Mr. T.H. Bell, M.P.P., and Mrs. Bell, Mr. and Mrs. Elgin Trimble, Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Allen and Mr. and Mrs. Jas. Densmore, Toronto; Mr. Geo. Webb and Gretta, Wingham; Mr. Wm. Keys, Mr. and Mrs. Albert Richardson, Mrs. John Grey and baby, Corbetton; Mr. and Mrs. Alex MacMurchy, Elora; Mr. and Mrs. B. Harrop and Roy, Mr. and Mrs. Ford, and Mr. and Mrs. Richardson, Norval; Mr. and Mrs. Thos. Cook, Orton; Mr. Hugh Morrison and daughter, Laura, Georgetown; Mrs. John Bryan and son and daughter, Mrs. W.J. McLaughlin and son, Robert, and Mr. and Mrs. C. Robb, Tottenham; Mr. and Mrs. Wm. A. Jenkins and Mr. Clifford Jenkins, Barrie; Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Redman, Orton and Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Hall, Hillsburg.

Top of page

March 19, p.3: Catherine Anne (Ames) Campbell -Orangeville lost another of its highly esteemed residents last week through the death of Mrs. Dougald Campbell, who passed away at the home of her daughters, Mrs. J.W. Lawrason, St. George, Ont., on Friday, March 13th. Mrs. Campbell, who was spending the winter with her daughter, had been in indifferent health since last November. Deceased whose maiden name was Catherine Anne Ames, was in her 80th year and was born in Erie, Pa, coming to Erin when quite a young girl. Here she met and married Dougald Campbell, then a young school teacher, a little over 51 years ago. On January 26th, 1930, Mr. and Mrs. Campbell had the pleasure of celebrating their golden wedding anniversary, spending the day quietly and receiving the congratulations of their friends at their home here. From Erin they moved to Orangeville in 1896 and except for a term of nine years in Grand Valley, have resided here continuously since that time. Mrs. Campbell was a staunch member of the Presbyterian church and in earlier life was an active church worker. Genuine in her life and sincere in her friendships, she was held in affectionate esteem by her circle of neighbors and friends. Her loss is mourned by her aged husband and two daughters, Mrs. Lawrason and Miss Stella Campbell, of the staff of Harbord Collegiate, Toronto. The funeral was held from her late home here to Erin Cemetery on Monday afternoon, Rev. W.W. McRae conducting the services. The pallbearers were Dr. G.H. Campbell, Messrs D.B. Brown, D. Macpherson, W.C. Hopkins, J.H. Kearns and C.V. Jeffers. Among the friends here for the funeral were six nephews and nieces - Rev. R.C. Tibbs, Toronto, Mr. Geo. Downey, Bolton, Mr. Chas Snider, Maple, Mrs. Jackson and Mrs. Parson, Toronto, and Mrs. Armstrong, Bolton.

top of page

March 5, p.3:W.H. Clark - Mr. W. H. Clark, a brother-in-law of Messrs W.S. and Adam Claridge, passed away at his home in Buffalo, N.Y., on Friday, February 27th. Deceased who was about 64 years of age, was born in Alliston, but had lived in Buffalo since early boyhood. He is survived by his wife and a family of one son and two daughters. Interment took place in Buffalo Sunday.

top of page

March 26, p.3:John R. Cook - John Robert Cook, who was probably the oldest resident of Orangeville and district, passed away at his home on John St. on Wednesday, March 18th, at the ripe age of 95 years. While he had become quite feeble during the last few months, Mr. Cook had enjoyed remarkably good health for a man of his advanced age. Deceased was born in Michigan in 1836 and came to these parts at the early age of nine years, his parent settling on lot 1, con. 19, East Garafraxa, where the family resided for 25 years. Fifty-four years ago he married Elizabeth Delaney, who predeceased her aged husband a short seven months ago. The young couple moved to Amaranth, where they cleared a farm on lot 21, con. 9. Some years later they returned to East Garafraxa and eventually bought the Gough farm on the Centre Road, Caledon, where they resided until 14 years ago, when they retired from the farm and moved to Orangeville, taking up their residence on John St. The late Mr. Cook was a staunch Presbyterian and was for many years a member of the session of St. Andrew's church. After union he filled the same office in the Orangeville Presbyterian church. He was a Conservative in politics and in his earlier days had been identified with the Orange Order. He was an honest, conscientious man, straightforward in his dealings and was held in genuine respect as a neighbor and citizen. His loss is mourned by one daughter, Mrs. J.W. Connor, who cared for her father since the death of Mrs. Cook, four sons, Thomas, of Regina, Sask., Robert, Ben. on the homestead in Caledon, and William, of Alton, and two brothers, Benjamin, of Caledon,and William, of Orangeville. The funeral, which was attended by a large number of friends and old neighbors, was held from his late home to Greenwood cemetery on Saturday afternoon, Rev. W.W. McRae conducting the services. The pallbearers were Messrs. D.C. Cook, Ben Robinson, Thomas Delaney, Brampton, David Fines, Albert Sawden and Andrew Adams. The flowerbearers were Ruth Bacon, Hillsburg, Edna Cook, Guelph, Florence and Jean Cook, Orangeville. During the service Mr. Albert Clowes sang "We'll Never Say Good-bye." Floral tributes were received from Mr. Ben Cook and family, the Cook family, Mr. R. and Miss Maria Reynolds and the Ladies Aid of the Presbyterian Church.

top of page

March 5, p.3: James H. Cooper - There passed away at 9386 Ravenswood Ave., Detroit, on February 19th, 1931, James H. Cooper, at the age of seventy-two years. Mr. Cooper was born in the village of Marsville, October 31st, 1858. He married Eliza Ann Carson, of Amaranth, in December 1885, and moved to Detroit, April 18th 1887, and for thirty-three years conducted a well known and successful painting business. He came to be known as one of the best imitators of wood grains in the city. Mr. Cooper greatly enjoyed his visits with his old friends in Dufferin County and looked forward every week for The Banner, as he called it a letter from home, and was always saddened when it brought him news of the death of any of his old friends. He is survived by his wife, three daughters, two sisters and two brothers, Richard King, Margaret and Hannah. He was laid to rest at Grand Lawn Cemetery, on Monday February 23rd.

top of page

March 5, p.3:Ronald Cornelius -The funeral of William Ronald Cornelius, infant son of Mr. and Mrs. A.W. Cornelius, Zina St., was held from the home of his parents to Greenwood cemetery on Thursday afternoon, February 26th. Rev. E.W. McBrien spoke words of helpful sympathy and comfort in the service at the bereaved home and also conducted the service at the grave. The pallbearers were Harry Hills, Gibson Richardson and Charlie Peterson, three uncles and George Leighton jr., a cousin of the babe. The floral tributes included: - A pillow, Mother, Daddy and Brothers; sheaf, Grandpa and Grandma Cornelius; sheaf, Grandpa and Grandma Hillis; spray, Aunt Evana and Uncle Charlie; spray, Aunt and Uncles; spray, Mr. and Mrs. Fred Cornelius; spray, Mr. and Mrs. G. Vanwyck and family; spray, Jack and Jim; bouquet, Clarence and Bertha (Menary - my note). Heartfelt were the expressions of sympathy for the parents in their grievous loss.

top of page

June 4, p.3:William Cornelius -In the death on Sunday, May 24th, of William Cornelius, the township of East Garafraxa lost one of its oldest citizens and man who was held in genuine regard by the community in which he had resided for sixty-five years. Although in his 91st year, Mr. Cornelius had scarcely known what it meant to be ill. Possessed of a sound, health body he had always enjoyed the best of health. a year ago he went about his farm and engaged in his favorite pastime, gardening, much as he had bee accustomed to do for many years. Until early in February last he went to the barn every day and was able to be up and about the house almost to the last. The late Mr. Cornelius, who was descended from an old English family, was born at Casa Blanca, Brazil, on January 24th, 1841. He was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Thos. Cornelius, who engaged with and English mining company at the time of their marriage and took the long voyage from England to South America as their honeymoon trip. Seven years later the family returned to England, making the voyage in fourteen weeks in one for the sailing vessels that were in general use prior to the coming of the steamship. When eleven year of age the subject of our sketch came to Canada with his parents, the family first settling in Hamilton, later near Cayuga and finally moving to Dungannon in Huron County. At thirteen young Cornelius made his first venture on his own account, engaging with a farmer near Cayuga for the munificent wage of 75 cents a month and his board and clothing. His employer, by the way , was Mr. Culp, father of Dr. Harry Culp, now living in Toronto. In 1865, Cornelius drove a yoke of oxen, a cow and a few belongings 100 miles over rude roads from Dungannon to lot 13, con 16, East Garafraxa, where he settled and in time became on of the prosperous farmers of the township. From the first he kept a well=modeled farmstead in view as his goal and the arrangement and attractive appearance of the buildings, garden and other surroundings at the present time shows the good judgment with which h e planned. Shortly after settling in East Garafraxa he married Miss Hannah Lathwell, of Orangeville, who predeceased her husband about seven years ago. He is survived by a family of four sons and four daughters, namely ex-Warden, Jno. a. Cornelius, East Garafraxa, William, on the homestead, Fred, Orangeville, Joseph, East Garafraxa, Mrs. w.A. Dynes, Amaranth, Mrs. Geo. Lightle, Mrs. R.G. Thompson and Mrs. Albert Reid, East Garafraxa. He is also survived by one brother James Cornelius, Lucknow, and a sister, Mrs. Elizabeth Burns, Holmfield, Man. The late Mr. Cornelius was a man who accepted the good and ill that comes in life with equanimity and good nature. He was deeply attached to his home and family and took a keen interest in his church and its welfare. As a neighbor he was held in the highest regard for his honesty, consistency of purpose and readiness to help those about him. Keenly interested in schools and the education of the young, he gave good service as a school trustee. He was a member of the Presbyterian church and was an elder in the Waldemar church for many years. In politics he was a consistent supporter of the conservative party, but tolerant in his attitude toward those who differed from him on question of church or state.

The funeral, which was largely attended, was held from his late residence to Greenwood cemetery on Tuesday afternoon May 26th,. service was held at the house by Rev. W.W. McRae, of Orangeville, assisted by Revs. F.J. Dunlop, Laurel, and Revs. Dinnick and Harris, of Orangeville. The pallbearers were Messrs. Geo. Gamble, W.A. Donaldson, James Hunter, John Burk, Alex. Burk and Arch. McKitrick. Many beautiful flowers bore mute testimony to the worth of the departed man and the sorrow of friends and neighbors. These included: Gates Ajar, the family; anchor, grandchildren; basket, great grandchildren; wreath, Lathwell nieces; sprays, Mrs. Will Johnston and Mrs. Mauthie, nieces; bouquet of tulips, Mr. F.C. Roffe; spray, Waldemar Presbyterian Church; spray, Laurel United church. The flowerbearers were Arthur Lightle, Edward Lightle, Alvin Cornelius, Harvel Dynes, Willie Reid, Elmer Dynes Myrrl Cornelius and Arthur Cornelius, all grandsons.

Some of the friends present from a distance were: Mr. James Cornelius and Mr. and Mrs. Amos Cornelius, Lucknow; Mr. F.C. Roffe and Mr. Floyd Roffe, Gowanda, N.Y.; Mr. and Mrs. Will Johnston and Mrs. Mauhie, Toronto; Mrs. Wilbert Braden, Toronto; Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Dynes, Reddickville.

top of page

June 11, p.3:Elsie Beatrice (Leighton) Curry - Widespread and heartfelt was the sorrow and sympathy created by the announcement of the death of Mrs. Harvey Curry, who passed away at her home on Third Avenue at 6:30 on Friday evening June 5th. For nine months Mrs. Curry and her nurses and physicians had waged an unavailing battle against the malady that had marked her for its victim. At times everything pointed to a complete recovery, only to have the hopes of those near and dear shattered by a relapse that left the patient less fit to continue the struggle. Three months were spent under the care of a specialist in the Private Patients Pavillion of the Toronto General Hosptial. A further term was spent in Lord Duffein Hospital here and in the last stages of her illness. Mrs. Curry was tenderly cared for in her lovely Third Avenue home. Mrs. Curry endured her long illness with Christian fortitude and cheerfullness, never being heard to complain or repine over her lot.

Mrs. Curry, whose maiden name was Elsie Beatrice Leighton, was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Leighton, Third Avenue. She was born and spent her girlhood on the Centre Road, Mono. She was married to Mr. Curry, one of Orangeville's younger business men, between ten and eleven years ago. Her loss is mourned by her aged parents, her husband, three children, Lloyd, Doreen and Mary, her mother-in-law, Mrs. Curry, three brothers, Jas. A. Leighton, Mono, George, Macleod, ,Alta, and John, Toronto., and five sisters, Mrs. Jos, H. Jackson, Mrrs. Oliver Sproule and Mrs. W.E. Island, Mono, Mrs. N. Williamson, Toronto, and Mr. Percy Avison, Brantford. Deceased was a kindly woman whose sunny nature and loving disposition had own her many warm friends. She was devoted to her home, husband and children, by whom she will be sorely missed. She was a member of St. Andrew's Church and when in health a regular church attendant.

The funeral which was largely attended, was held from her late home to the Forest Lawn Cemetery on Sunday afternoon. Rev. H.A. West-McMaster conducted the services and was assisted by Rev. C.J. McIntosh. Six brothers-in-law, Messrs. Oliver Sproule, Jos. H. Jackson, J .R. Bracken, W.E. Island, N. Williamson and Percy Avison, were the pallbearers. The flowerbearers wer six nephews, Fred Sproule, Frank Jackson, Harold Bracken, Harvey Williamson, Arnold Avison and Kenneth Leighton. There were many beautiful floral tributes. These were from : the husband and children, Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Reid, the sisters, Mr. and Mrs. Clare Reid, Mrs. Lewis and Mrs. Dewar, Mr. and Mrs. F.A. Falconer, Mr. and Mrs. Jas. Loftus, Mrs Edgar Island and son, Dr. and Mrs. Tinkess,, Orangeville Citizens Band, The Bracken Family, Mrs. Anderson and Miss Edith, Mr. and Mrs. J .B. Adamson, Nieces and Nephews, Mother and Father, Mr. and Mrs. W. Heath, Mr. Ray Curry, Mr. and Mrrs. W.W. Marshall and Nan, Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Morison, Mr. and Mrs. Norman Trower, Mr. and Mrs. Fred Curry, Donnie Robinson, Mr. and Mrs. Jas. A. Leighton and family, Mr. and Mrs. Joe Merlina, Mr. and Mrs. Harry Glover, Mr and Mrs. J.H. Lang, Mr. J.B. Alexander, Mr and Mrs. Geo. Cameron, Mr. and Mrs. P.J. McCaffrey, Mr. and Mrs. O.H. Robinson, Mr. and Mrs. N.N. Wardlaw, Mr. and Mrs. Creswell Walker, Mr and Mrs. Geo. B. Brown, Mr. and Mrs. Harold Mills, Mr. and Mrs. D.J. Torrie and Mr. and Mrs. Ed White.
Friends from a distance were: Mr. and Mrs. John Alderson, Alliston; Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Davis, Mr. and Mrs. Fred Arnold, Mr. and Mrs. John Arnold, Mr. and Mrs. Jennet and Mr. Arnold, Barrie; Mrs. Geo. Halbert, Alliston, Mrs. John Carr, Mr. and Mrs. W. Heath, Mr. Ray Curry, Rose and Garnet Curry, Mr and Mrs. M.J. Leighton, Mr. and Mrs. Cecil White, Mr. and Mrs. Thos, Hughes, Mrs. Frank McCann, Mr. and Mrs. Pomterre and Mr. And Mrs. Stelle, toronto, and Miss Barclay, Guelph.

top of page

June 11, p.3:Arthur W. Edwards -Arthur W. Edwards, 19 Balliol St., Toronto, for the past thirty years travelling baggage agent on the C.P.R., died in Wellesley Hospital, Toronto, on May 25th, at the age of 51 years. The remains were interred in Mount Pleasant cemetery. a sudden attack of appendicitis was the cause of death. Born at Woodstock, Ont., Mr Edwards had resided in Toronto since joining the railway. He was a member of the Glebe Road United Church, the I.O.O.F. and the Brotherhood of Railway Trainmen. Surviving are his wife, Susan Wallce Cruikshank, formerly of Orangeville, three daughters, Roumaine, Dorothy and Frances, a brother, John, of Detroit, and a sister, Mrs. Laura Miller, of Bright, Ont. That Mr. Edwards had many friends was easily proven by the multitude of flower tributes and his was one of the largest private funerals held in Toronto.

top of page

March 19, p.3:George F. Fleming - Mr. George F. Fleming, one of Orangeville's well-known citizens, passed away at his home on Broadway shortly after noon on Sunday, March 15th, after a short illness from pleurisy and pneumonia. While not at any time very strong, Mr. Fleming was in his usual health until Wednesday night before his demise, when he was taken ill quite suddenly. The late Mr. Fleming, who was 73 years of age, was born on a farm at Hastings, Northumberland county, where he spent his early life. He moved to Dufferin county 38 years ago, settling at Camilla, where he built and operated the Camilla cheese factory for several years. Twenty-eight years ago he moved to Orangeville, where he has since resided. He was a quiet, industrious man, an excellent neighbor and a citizen who always gave his hearty support to any movement for the benefit of Orangeville. He enjoyed the undivided respect of the community and keen sympathy is felt for the bereaved wife and family. Mr. Fleming was a member and regular attendant of St. Andrew's United Church. He was a Conservative and enthusiastic Oddfellow, having been identified with the Order for 47 years and holding the rank of Past Noble Grand. He is survived by his wife, who was formerly Miss Martha Howard, of Mono centre, two sons, Percy, of Cayley, Alta, and Alex, of Toronto, two daughters Miss Jessie and Mrs. Eldred Whelan, Orangeville, and a twin brother, Edward Felming, of Hastings. His son, Percy , started for home when apprised of the serious nature of his father's illness and reached here Wednesday morning in time for the funeral, which was held to the Forest Lawn Cemetery yesterday afternoon. A largely attended public service was held in St. Andrew's United Church by Rev. C.G. Armour. Members of Maple Leaf Lodge, I.O.O.F. attended the funeral in a body and Harold Mills, N.G., and F.A. Falconer, chaplain, conducted the burial service of the Order at the grave. The pallbearers, who were brother Oddfellows, were Dr. R.N. Kyles and Messrs J.E. Smith, J.A. Langford, D.B. Brown, T.H. Greenis and J.R. Hughs. Many beautiful flowers bore mute testimony to the esteem in which the late Mr. Fleming was held and the sympathy entertained for the bereaved family.

top of page

June 4, p.3:Helen (Pettit) Grogan - After a long illness; Mrs. Francis Grogan passed away on Sunday, May 24th, at her home, Ballycroy. Deceased, whose maiden name was Helen Pettit, was a daughter of the late Edward and Mary Pettit and was born in the township of Adjala, where she spent the greater part of her life. She was in her sixty-second year. A kind neighbor and a true friend, she won and held the esteem of the community in which she lived so long and her passing will be deeply deplored. Besides her husband, she is survived by one daughter, Mrs. Robett Baxter, of Toronto, and two sons, Fred and Leo, of Ballycroy, also four sister, Mrs. E.J. O'Leary, and Miss Marie Pettit, of Chicago; Mrs. Patrick Dolan and Miss Agnes Pettit, of buffalo, and five brothers, Edward, John and Harry, of Toronto, William, of Adjala , and James of Palgrave. The funeral was held on Tuesday morning to St. John's R.C. Church. Albion, interment being made in St. John's cemetery. - Tottenham Sentinel.

top of page

March 19, p.3:Mary Ann (Hall) Henderson -Mary Ann Hall, beloved wife of the late Simon Henderson, died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. J.E. Rowan, Toronto, on Wednesday, March 11th, at the ripe age of 88 years. A short service was conducted in the home prior to the removal of the remains to Hillsburg, where they were taken to the home of Mrs. E.T. Barbour. Rev. James Reidie conducted the funeral service at the home of Mrs. Barbour and also officiated at Price's Corners cemetery, where interment was made. The late Mrs. Henderson is survived by a family of nine: William, of Saskatchewan; Jos., of California; Robert, of Orangeville; Albert, of Waterdown; John, of Fergus; Mrs. J.E. Rowan, of Toronto; Mrs. E.T. Barbour, Mrs. Arch. Reid and Ed., of Erin township. Her husband predeceased her eighteen year ago. The pallbearers were Messrs J.H. and Trueman Hall, John and Ed. Henderson, William Barbour and Arch. Reid.

top of page

February 19, p.3:James Hunter -James Hunter, who enjoyed the distinction of being Orangeville's oldest citizen and probably the oldest man in the County of Dufferin, passed away at his home on Elizabeth St., West Ward, on Friday, February 13th, in his 102nd year. (photo of Mr. Hunter and his grandnephew Billie Davey, of Ottawa) Mr. Hunter celebrated his 100th birthday on October 16th, 1929, and was at that time presented with an illuminated address and an armchair on behalf of the town council. Despite his remarkable age, the old gentleman was well preserved and until recently had been fairly active. Although confined to his room at times, he was usually able to be up and go about the house and even took short walks outside. In death his features showed little of the wasting that might have been expected at his great age and he looked more like a man of seventy than one who had passed the century mark by a year and some months.

James Hunter was born in Aberdeen, Scotland, but moved to Clougher, Ireland, when quite young. From Ireland he came to America in 1843, spending a couple of years in New York and vicinity and arriving in Toronto in 1845. Later he spent five years at Norwich, Ont., and then worked on the construction of the old Northern Railway between Toronto and Barrie, one of the first railways built in Western Ontario. After he left the railway he made his way to Rosemont, where an uncle named John Hunter resided. He farmed in Mulmur at the north end of Adjala for a number of years and also engaged in horsebuying, making periodic trips to Quebec for the purpose of purchasing or selling horses. While living in the Rosemont neighborhood he married Miss Sarah Brown, of Adjala, who predeceased her husband in 1907. Mr. Hunter moved to Orangeville in 1884, purchasing and taking up his residence in the house in which he died. Deceased was a man of industrious habits, who had experience his full share of the hard work and privations that were the common lot of the early Ontario settlers. He was a skilled gardener and in quite recent years could be seen hard at work in the large garden that adjoined his home. He had always enjoyed excellent health and was wont to attribute his longevity and good health to hard work, plain living and a contented mind. He was a member of the former Methodist Church and was a strong Liberal in politics. He always took a keen interest in politics and as recenly as the last Provincial election signed Mr. T.K. Slack's nomination paper. It is probably safe to state that he was the oldest elector who ever attached his signature to a document of this kind in the history of the County of Dufferin.
He is survived by a family of four sons and two daughters. they are: George A., of Port Arthur; Miss M.S., of the Orangeville Public School staff; James L. and Miss Sarah, of Orangeville; John, of San Mateo, Cal., and William A., of Toronto.

The funeral was held from his late residence to the Forest Lawn Cemetery on Monday afternoon, Rev. E.W. McBrien conducting services at the house and grave. The pallbearers, who were neighbors and close friends of the family, were Jos. Ryan, John Bradley, J.M. McNaughton, A.B. Holmes, J.R. Hughes and W.J. Tate. The floral tributes included wreaths from Principal Hartmier and the Public School teaching staff, Orangeville Public School Board, the pupils of Miss Hunter's class, and Mr. W. Grigg, Mrs. W. Little and Miss D. Leeson, and spray, Lord Dufferin Chapter I.O.D.E., Mrs. C.H. King, Mr. and Mrs. C.V. Jeffers, Mr. and Mrs. A.D. McKitrick, Mrs. Frank Marshall, Mrs. Laura Miller and daughter, Mary and Mr. and Mrs. Jos. Laight and family.

March 19, p.3:Rebecca (Scott) Hunter -Her many friends in Orangeville and district were grieved to learn of the death of Mrs. W.H. Hunter, who passed away at her home, 894 Greenwood Ave., Toronto, on Friday March 13th, after three months illness. Deceased who was in her 74th year, was formerly Rebecca Scott, daughter of David and Mary Scott, of Leith, Grey county. Thirty-eight years ago she was married to the late W.H. Hunter, The Maples, who predeceased her in 1910. she continued to reside on the fine Hunter property at the Maples until five years ago, when she moved to Toronto, where she had since mad her home. Mrs. Hunter was a kindly warm-hearted woman, whose splendid qualities and exemplary life had endeared her to a large circle of friends and neighbors. She was a devoted wife and mother, who found her great happiness in life in the happiness and welfare of her family. She was keenly interested in church and social welfare work and since removing to Toronto had been a member of Kimbourne Park United church. Her loss is mourned by three sons, W.H. Hunter, Orangeville, Clerk of Dufferin county, Gordon and Bryson Hunter, Toronto, two sisters, Mrs. Ida Ewing and Miss Ada Scott, Toronto, and four brothers, John Scott, Toronto, Marshall, Penetang. Robert, Rochester, N.Y. , and Charles, Owen Sound. Charles the youngest brother of the family, has been in poor health for a number of years and passed away on Monday night, just three days after the death of his sister. A fourth son, James, died in Toronto seven years ago.
The funeral, which was largely attended by friends and old neighbors, was held from the home of her son, Mr. W.H. Hunter, Zina St., to Greenwood cemetery, on Sunday afternoon, Rev. C.G. Armour conducting the services. The pallbearers were Messrs. W.G. Kearns, Dr. G.H. Campbell, W.H. Reid, Nelson Black, S.H. Simpson and Jas. Hilliard. Many floral tributes told impressively of the affection and sorrow of friends of the departed woman. Among these were: Wreath, Dufferin County Council and Officials; wreath, John and Ernest Scott and family; pillows, the sisters; the grandchildren; the sons; spray, Mrs. Foster and Miss Marshall, Toronto; Murphy family; Mr. and Mrs. Twiddle, Toronto; Dorothy and Ada Scott; Toronto; Kimbourne Park Institute, Toronto; W.M.S. Kimbourne park United Church, Toronto; Jean Derby, Toronto; Mr. and Mrs. John Nicholson, Toronto; Henry, Hugh Clare and Lewis Reid; Vivian and Margaret Campbell, Toronto; Chas. Scott and family, Owen Sound; Superintendent and Nurses Victorian Order of Nurses, Toronto; baskets, Mrs. Melia, Toronto; The Maples Women's Institute; Mrs. I.O. Reid and Mr. and Mrs. W.G. Kearns; Mrs Isaac May and family and Mrs. Norris and Glenn.

top of page

March 26, p.3:Wilson Irwin - The many friends of Wilson Irwin, of inwood and Ashern, were shocked to learn of his sudden death, which occurred Saturday, February 28th.
Wilson left home Saturday afternoon for a hunt, and no anxiety was felt by his parents, when he failed to return on Sunday, as they thought he had stayed with friends. On Monday, however, they became alarmed and a search was started, resulting in the discovery of the body just three miles from home. On entering a likely thicket of brush and timber he had found it necessary to climb a fence, but in so doing the rifle had accidentally discharged, causing instantaneous death.
He had not been enjoying good health for some time, and had been recuperating during the past four months, but had hoped to recommence work at Inwood on April 1st.
Wilson was held ni high esteem by all those with whom he came in contact, and left many friends to mourn his loss.
He is survived by his aged parents, Mr. and Mrs. Alex. Irwin, of Ashern, formerly of Stonewall, also two sisters and four brothers. He was a member of the A.F. & A.M. Lodge, No. 12, of Stonewall.
Interment was made at Ashern from the United church at that point on Thursday March 5th. - The Stonewall, Man., Argus.
Mr. Irwin was a nephew of Mr. J.B. Irwin, Zina St.

More.....

[top of page] [Dufferin County GenWeb]

Last updated: August 1, 2000
©1999-2000 Amy Menary