Obituary

Te Aroha News, Volume XXVII, Issue 4406, 4 May 1909, Page 2

Obituary

H. J. MATTHEWS, CHIEF FORESTER. The many people in Te Aroha acquainted with ths late Mr Matthews, Chief Forester in the New %eqlqnd Forestry Department, will deeply regret his death, which occurred on Tuesday at Mt. Pleasant Hospital, Auckland.

Some time ago Mr Matthews was in ill-health and consulted Dr. Craig, who advised him to go into the hospital and undergo an operation- He left Rotorua three weeks ago. The operation was performed, but too late to save the patient’s life

Air Matthews has been in charge pf the Forestry Department since its inception about twelve years ago. He was thoroughly devoted to his work, sparing no pains, and being an indefatigable and conscientious* official. Hp was a native of Dunedin, being the youngest son of the late Mr Geo. Matthews, of Mornington, nursery and seedsman. In bis youth he served his apprenticeship as a cabinetmaker, after which he devoted himself te nursery work. He was a man of considerable attainments and natural ability, very kind but firm jq dealing with his subordinates.

Mr Matthews was married about twelve years ago There is no issue to the marriage. Mrs Matthews comes from England, where all her relatives reside.