OBITUARY

Chronicle (Levin), 9 July 1947, Page 3

OBITUARY

MR. JAMES CURRAN Shannon moums the loss of one of its most highly-rCspected citizens in the sudden passing at "ihe Albion Hotel on Saturday morning, of Mr. James Curran. The iate Mr. Curran was born. in County Waterford,. Ireland, 74 years ago and came to New Zealand with his parents at the age of six years. The Curran family landed at Port Chalmers and took up residence in' the town of Milton, in. the South Island. The deceased gen.leman joined the staff of the New Zealand Railways at the age of 16 years and served continuously for almost 30 years, retiring from the service in Christchurch as a guard. The late Mr. Curran and his family left the South Island to take over the Forester's Alms Hotel, in Greytown, in 1919, After resid-( ing in that town for four years, they came to Shannon in December, 1923, when Mr. Curran purchased the Albion Hotel. During the 44 year-s he resided in Shannon Mr. Curran was a remarkable benefactbr to the town. He was the founder of the Shannon Volunteer Fir& Brigade and became its first .superintendent and was made the first life member of the brigade. He was also a foundation member of the Shannon Amateur Athletic and Cycling Club and a keen follower and willing helper of all sport. His passing will be sadly regretted by every sports organisation hrithe district. Until the time of his passing, the late Mr. Curran was president of the district Licensed Victuallers' Association. Mr. Curran took an active interest in local body alfairs. He first joined ihe Shannon Borough Council in 1927 and served until 1938, when he was forced to retire on account of health reasons. He was again appointed to the council in 1941, and at the time of his passing was the chairman of the reserves committee and the council's representative on the Fire Brigades' Association.^. Over twelve cars formed the cortege, which left Shannon for ' the Kilbirnie Cemetery, following Requiem Mass conducted by Father Foley at the Catholic Church, Shannon, on Mondayj morning. Left to mourn thqir loss is his widow and three sohs, Messrs. H. Curran (Shannon), E. Curran (Wellington) and F, Curran (Feilding! . .y...... i/:i*i t fHf.' TI'/