THE PASSING OF A MAORI VETERAN.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLV, Issue 2618, 11 August 1923, Page 2

THE PASSING OF A MAORI VETERAN.

The funeral of the late Mr Richard Ball, of Blenheim, father of Mr E. Ball, of Foxton, took place at Blenheim on Tuesday, July 31st. As , a veteran of the Crimean and Maori" Wars, the late Mr Ball was accorded a full military funeral and there was a large attendance of friends, relatives and returned soldiers. The Rev. Archdeacon York officiated at the graveside, the Marlborough College Cade:.- provided a firing party and the “Last Post' was sounded by Mr S. Ilyridmaii. The deceased had a very interesting career, having travelled both hemispheres in his younger days, before coining to New Zealand with the Imperial Troops to take part in the Maori War, but it is unfortunate that he left no personal record of his life’s experiences. It is ascertained, however, that he took part in the first- engagement in which the Colonial and Imperial troops fought shoulder to shoulder in the Maori War. At the conclusion of hostilities deceased was joined by his late wife, and resided in Nelson, where he entered into business. For many-*, years he carried out extensive work for the Acclimatisation Society, attending 1 • the introduction and breeding of imported fish and also carried on the business of catching and exporting birds from this country. For the last 20 years' or so In' led a quiet retired life, being somewhat incapacitated with leg trouble, but despite his great age, he took a keen interest in all matters, and had a remarkable memory, being able to recount interesting incidents in his career, as far back; as his boyhood days. Mrs Ball predeceased him fifteen years ago.. The late Mr and Mrs Ball had a family of seven, six of whom are still living. There arc about 30 grandchildren and some 35 great-grandchild-ren.