Obituary.

Manawatu Herald, 31 March 1904, Page 2

Obituary.

JOHN CHRISTIAN RICHTER One of Palmerston’s oldest Mr John Christian Richter, passed away on Thursday night at his residence, Broad-street. For over two years deceased had been a great sufferer, being confined almost exclusively to the house, and the end came not unexpectedly. Deceased was 73 years of age, thirty-six of which he spent in. Palmerston. He landed in New Zealand in 1868, a /ear after the arrival of two other well-known residents, Messrs Nannestad and Jeussen, with whom he was destined to be closely connected in business for the remainder of his life. All three were emigrants from Norway ; and four years after Mr Richter arrived here they entered into partnership in the flourmilling business, establishing the mill which at present stands at the upper end of Broad-street. Though making a modest beginning the business quickly developed, but the firm did not devote attention entirely to the flour industry. They opened up as sawmillers, and very soon their operations covered very large fielda._ All the best timber bush in the district supplied their mills and a considerable extent of country, including the Hokowhitu, fell into their bands. In fact the name of the firm is perhaps the best known throughout the Manawatu. The present Sash and Door Company’s business was founded by them, and other sawmills up the East Coast, some of which are still retained, they also established. Mr Richter, of latter years, up to the time of his illness, controlled the work of the flour mill. Though of a retiring nature he was very highly respected by all who knew him as a man of sterling character. Amongst the old residents of the district especially will his death occasion very deep regret. In his native country the deceased’s relations are people of note, his brother occupying a high and resposible position, —M. Times.