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Hokitika Guardian, 24 November 1933, Page 4

The tribute paid yesterday to the victims of the aeroplane accident was district-wide in its extent. Seldom, if ever, has there been such a gathering from far and near to pay the last tribute of respect. Both the deceased were natives of this town, but the older had gone further afield and made his mark also in the public life of the neighbouring town. The younger was one of our ideal youths promising a most useful life. So the two main centres were brought together in the common expression of their svmoathy. and the districts in between alike familiar with the work and life of the honoured dead, joined. in the same sincere expression of respect. Now and again some tragic events stirs the imagination of the people out of the common round. It is typical of tlio race that moving events have a wide-spread effect on the people at large, and there is a universal desire to show their feelings by the fullest

outward marks of respect. The victims of the accident within less than an hour ol' taking off for their return trip to Christchurch, were no more. The mishap occurrred with dramatic suddenness, which was the most merciful aspect of the dire event. Two bright and useful lives were cut off, and this loss was felt by all. To those who personally mourn the dead, the wonderful mark of respect shown by the community at large must be of some comfort. There is no doubt that the tribute was a sincere one, and very genuine regret is felt. The human feeling, which brought together such a concourse of people from far and near was a deep seated sympathy for those bereaved, and a mark of public respect to the lives of the men which had been taken. No greater tribute could have been pm id.