MR. T. HALPIN, LOVELLS FLAT.

New Zealand Tablet, Volume XXXI, Issue 27, 2 July 1903, Page 20

MR. T. HALPIN, LOVELLS FLAT.

Great regret was expressed in the Tokomairiro district when it was learned that Mr. Thomas Halpin had passed away on Friday last at his home in Lovells Flat. Deceased had been ailing for some time. A large congregation assembled in the Catholic Church, Mtlton, at the solemn Requiem Mass and Office which were celebrated for the repose of his soul. The celebrant was the Very Rev. Father O'Neill, Rev. P. O'Donnell (Gore) deacon, Rev. M. Howard (Dunedin) subdeacon, and Rev. H. W. Cleary (Dunedin) master of ceremonies. There were also present the Very Rev. Monsignor O'Leary (Lawrence) and Rev. J. Coffey (South Dunedin). At the close of the solemn services the Dead March in Saul was played upon the organ by Miss Scanlan. All creeas and classes were represented) at the funeral, which was very numeiously attended. The last services at the graveside were conducted by Monsignor O'Leary, assisted by the other clergy whose names are given above. . The late Mr. Thomas Halpin was born in the historic Glen of Aherlow 68 years ago. He settled on one of the finest and best situated farms in Lovells Flat some 36 years since, having been previously engaged in farming on the Taieri Plain for a few years. A model of industry, unrightness, manly independence, and unwavering devotion to his country and creed, he won the respect of all in a district in which he was the only Catholic landowner. Being blessed with a devoted and exemplary wile, his affairs prospered, and no. man better realised the necessity of returning to God a proportionate shore of his bounty. He was one of the foremost With material help m every undertaking for the promotion of religion in the parish. Living a distance of eight miles from his parish church, he was, nevertheless, one of the most regular in attendance at Sunday Mass and monthly Communion, thus giving an example which could not fail to have its effect on the rising generation. He left no issue his surviving blood relations being two married sisters, to whom, and to his sorrowing wife, deep sympathy is extended.— R.l. P.