Obituaries Australia

The death is announced of the Hon. Thomas Dalton, M.L.C. which took place yesterday afternoon at his residence Wheatleigh, North Sydney, at the advanced age of 72. The late Mr. Dalton arrived in this State at a comparatively early age, and some 50 years ago he in company with his brother James started business as merchants in Orange. Subsequently the firm transferred the main business to Sydney, having branches in several parts of the country. Mr. Dalton was among the best known men in commercial circles in this city. His keen business habits and strict integrity won for him many friends. He and his brother in this way built up a large and flourishing business as general and shipping merchants. Mr. Dalton was of a benevolent nature, and largely assisted the various charitable movements. In business he was ever ready to extend a helping hand to those who were less fortunate in the successes of life. He was a prominent member of the Roman Catholic Church. He took a leading part in all the movements of the Church, and in many ways assisted largely in its advancement. Upon the return to Sydney of Cardinal Moran from his trip to Rome, Mr. Dalton, with several other laymen in the Church, had the ecclesiastical title conferred upon him of Knight Commander of the Order of St. Gregory. This is a rare title, and is only given by the Church for distinguished service. During his sojourn in Orange, Mr. Dalton took an active interest in all matters pertaining to the welfare of the district, and on several occasions he was elected Mayor of Orange. He was also for many years one of the Parliamentary representatives for that district, and upon his retirement from the Legislative Assembly, Mr. Dalton was appointed a member of the Upper House, which position he held at the time of his death. The deceased gentleman had been in failing health for about 18 months, and since February last was unable to leave his house. Drs. Sheldon and Scot Skirving attended the deceased, but his strength gradually failed him, and he died about 4 p.m. yesterday in the presence of the members of his family. Mr. Dalton has left a widow, one son, and two daughters.