LOSS TO DISTRICT

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 4, Issue 124, 2 July 1941, Page 5

LOSS TO DISTRICT

PIONEER RrXNGITAIKI PLAINS With the passing of the shock of Mr F. J. Reynolds disappearance and the tragic circumstances; Avlncn surround it, it has become slowly apparent that this district has experienced a great and irretrievable loss. Mr Frank Reynolds, s'o well known for his heartiness and generosity, will be missed by friends all over New Zealand. Hundreds can count themselves his debtors owing to his thoughtfuhvss and liberality. No one could be dull, where Frank (as he Avas affectionately known) avos concerned. In outlook he Avas broad and manly, being above s'mallmincv edness nnd hating all things Avhic.h made for intolerance and distinction He AA-as a man (in the Avord.s of one who kneAV him Avell) avlio Avas never appealed: to in vain, and above all Tie Avas a man whom it was a privilege to know. (Continued In nexl column).

Born in Cambridge fifty-two years ago, Mr F. J.. Reynolds came of n pioneering family' well known throughout the Waikato, where the Reynolds; homestead 'T'recarnc" was celebrated for its; hospitality. He was a son of the late Mr Richard Reynolds, and came to the Rangitaiki in 1917, being one of those early pioneers who had faith in the ultimate productivity of the 'swamp.' A large tract of undrained land was taken, up and with the progress of the Government scheme, was; sloavly brought into production. Service in the Great War. Mr Frank Reynolds was away for two years during the Great War. serving with the rank of Lieutenant, with the N.Z.E.F. He counted these two years, like everything else, as an opportunity to gain> knowledge by experience, and was given tc saying that the Avar was responsible for him 'finding himself.' Breaking in the Swamp. On his return he threw himself unremittingly into the work of reclamation, and as a direct result of his efforts produced one of the finest model farms on the Rangitaiki. His position on the\ swamp improved with its wider settlement and consolidation. The name 'Reynolds became known throughout the Bay of Plenty, and as his methods Avere giA r en Avider publicity throughout the dairying world. The division of his property into smaller farms provided: the opportunity for more intensified production, and he Avas considered the largest indiA'idual supplier to the Rangitaiki Dairy Companj^. Popular Sportsman. As a sportsman, Mr Reynolds Avas known throughout the Dominion. He Avas a keen linesman and his happy disposition made him a welcome'adjunct to local Rod and Line Clubs. Many Avill remember the gifts of game and fis;h Avhicli came their Avay as a result of his excursions. An enthusiastic golfer, he Avas also a prominent member of the Whakatane Club, Avhere his freedom and camcraderie, Avon him a host of friends and Avide popularity. The greatest sympathy Avill bo extended to Mrs Reynolds and the members of his young family Messrs Norman, William and Miiss Heather Reynolds.