Obituaries Australia

As already stated in the "Star," there passed away at Ballina on April 2nd, one of the pioneers of the district, in the person of Mr. G. W. Ferris, senr., who had reached the ripe age of 68 years. Further particulars are that he was a native of the Hawkesbury River district, and came to the Clarence in 1869. Shortly after, he went to the Ramornie Meat Preserving Works, where for years he had the contract for tin work in connection with the canning works of the company. In 1871 he married Miss Helen Rankin, of Grafton. He was an enthusiastic cricketer, and was for years secretary and treasurer of the Ramornie Cricket Club. Mr. Ferris came to the Richmond with his wife and four children 40 years ago. A little daughter died shortly after of croup. He resided in Casino, for six years, the remaining 34 years being spent in the Ballina district, where he engaged in the fruit, cane, and dairying pursuits. Three years ago he retired and settled in Ballina, and after a painful sickness, which he bore with Christian fortitude, he passed peacefully away on the 2nd inst. at 3 a.m. The funeral, took place in the afternoon at East Ballina, and notwithstanding the short notice, was largely attended. The Rev. Mr. McGowan officiated at the grave, and the Rev. Mr. Shaw and Mr. Bennett also took part. They spoke very feelingly of the loss sustained by the death of their sincere friend. Memorial services will be held on Sunday next. Mr. Ferris leaves a widow and 12 children. The daughters are: Mesdames C. Morris (New Zealand), J. Barlow (Ballina), A. T. Perkins (Rous Mill), Anthony Watt (Ballina), W. J. Parrish (Marom Creek), R. V. Robinson (residing with her mother, and whose husband is with the gallant 4th Brigade in Palestine), and Miss Nellie Ferris, who also resides with her mother. The sons are: Messrs. G. W. Ferris, A. J. Ferris, and C. F. Ferris, of Cooran (Q.), and W. E. Ferris of Pomona (Q). The youngest son, Pte. T. R. Ferris, is on active service in France. There were also 40 grand-children (37 of whom are living), and 7 great-grandchildren.