Obituaries Australia

Universal regret was manifested in town yesterday at the announcement of the death of Mr. S. [Sebastian] Kritsch, which took place at 9 a.m. Deceased had been prostrated from pneumonia of a severe type, and this, with the result of an accident received 15 months ago on the Richmond, caused his death. Mr. Kritsch was a native of Germany, and for a number of years pursued the trade of wheelwright at Frankfort, on the Maine, afterwards acquiring the trade of coachbuilder, in which he excelled. After completing his military service, he left for Australia in 1855, coming to the Clarence immediately after arrival, and has since sojourned at Grafton. In earlier years he conducted business in Queen-street, and while there he, in conjunction with Mr. Simon (who accompanied him to the colony), turned out the first buggy built at Grafton. Subsequently. Mr. Kritsch became host of the European hotel, top of Prince-street, and afterwards opened business in Queen-street, where an extensive business has since been carried on. He was a first-class tradesman, and his vehicles took numerous prizes at the Clarence and Richmond shows. Deceased was a useful citizen, taking a leading part in many public movements. He was for some years an Alderman of the Borough, for a long period was one of the committee of the Grafton Hospital, an institution in which he took a keen interest, and he was frequently elected to the management of the Clarence P. and A. Society. He was one of the members of the German Club, the first benefit society established in Grafton, and as its representative took an active part in the Friendly Societies Demonstrations that have of late years been held here. He was for a number of years treasurer of the Prince Leopold Lodge of Freemasons, and was only re-elected to the position a couple of weeks ago. He also took part in the establishment of the local Poultry Club, and as a breeder, took many prizes at the shows. About 40 years, ago Mr. Kritsch married a daughter of the late Mr. J. Strauss, whom he survived six years. He leaves five sons (including Mr. Alderman Kritsch) and four daughters, two of whom are married (Mrs. W. T. Welch, of Grafton, and Mrs. T. J. Houghton, of Sydney.) The deceased was 68 years of age. The funeral takes place at 3 p.m. to-day, when the remains will be interred with Masonic honours.