OBITUARY

Waikato Times, Volume 122, Issue 20500, 17 May 1938, Page 6

OBITUARY

MR JOHN ROBINSON (Special to Times.) TE AROHA, Monday The death has occurred at *Te Aroha of Mr John Robinson, aged 75. Mr Robinson, who was born at Epsom. Auckland, came to Te Aroha in 1882 and for some time was engaged In flax milling work. Later, while employed as a team driver he transported the sleepers for the Te Aroha-Morrinsvllle railway line and then for the extension to Rotorua. When the Waiorongomai gold mining boom set in he was one of the early miners spending some rears on the field. Forty years ago Mr Robinson started business on his own account as a carrier. He established the first passenger and mail service between Te Aroha and Waiorongomai. Throughout his recidenee in Te Aroha he took a keen interest in the progress of town and district, and was one of the foundation members of the Chamber of Commerce. With the introduction of motor vehicles he disposed of his horse and teams, and instituted a motor service. Eighteen months ago he met with an accident which was followed by declining health. He is survived by his widow and family of seven: Mrs M. Bigham. Mount Roskill; Mrs E. Pfeifer, Napier; Mrs F. Anderson. Napier; and Messrs Jack Robinson (Te Aroha), V. Robinson (Mt. Albert) and A. Robinson (Te Aroha). Another daughter, Mrs Cook, of Auckland, predeceased him two years ago. The funeral on Saturday was largely attended, many early settlers coming from a distance. The service was conducted by Canon G. W. Turner. Prior to the cortege leaving the house a well-known local Maori, Tuhitau Wi Repa, gave a brief Maori farewell.