OBITUARY.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLV, Issue 2539, 6 February 1923, Page 2

OBITUARY.

CHARLES HOOD, AGED 79 YEARS. There passed away at his residence, Avenue Road, Foxton, on Saturday afternoon last, a wellknown and respected resident in the person of Mr Charles Hood, aged 79 years. For many months past deceased had been confined to his home with a painful illness, which he bore with patience and fortitude. Mr Hood was born in Hoxton, England, on July 11th, 1844 and was the fourteenth child of Thomas and Louisa Hood, who it is interesting tc note, were married on the 24tli May, 1819—the morning of the birth of the late Queen Victoria: as the late Mr Hood’s parents wore coming from the marriage ceremony,, the church bells were ringing the tidings of the birth of the young princess, who in later years was destined to play such an important part n> Queen of England and Empress of India. The late Mr Hood left England on the 22nd of January, 1874, in the sailing ship “Golden Rea.” arriving at Quarantine Island on May Ist of the same year, after a stormy voyage of 199 days. Many hardships were encountered on the voyage and several deaths occurred aboard. Mr and Mrs Hood arrived at Foxton shortly after their arrival in New Zealand per the s.s. Manawatu, with the late Mr A. J. Whyte and others, where they made their home. After being in the employ of Mr A. J. Whyte for several years the late Mr Hood joined the N.Z. Railways as platelayer and ganger, a position he occupied for 21 years, for 10 of which lie was stationed at Oroua Bridge (now Rangiotu). He retired on superannuation about 20 years ago and has since lived in retirement. Mr Hood was a foundation member of the local “Masonic Lodge, but of late years did not actively participate in lodge matters. He was of a retiling disposition and did not actively participate in local public affairs. He was a man of sterling character, and was highly esteemed by all with whom he was acquainted. He laves a widow, son and two sisters much older than himself, to mourn their loss.

The funeral took place yesterday, the ceremony at the graveside being conducted by the Rev. Frank McDonald. Members of the local Masonic Lodge were in attendance and at the graveside the Masonic funeral service was read by W or. Bro. j no . Ross. The casket was covered with beautiful floral tributes from friends of the deceased.