DEATHS.
ELDER — On February 21, 1934, at Dunedin, Telford Alexander, beloved third son of James and Effie Elder, “Altrive,” Waipounamu; aged 21 years. Deeply mourned. “Gathered Home.” The funeral will pass through Gore on Friday, 23rd inst., at 1.30 p.m., arriving at Riversdale Cemetery at 2.30 p.m. —Hope & Kinaston, Undertakers, Dunedin. -Southland Times, 23/2/1934.
OBITUARY
TELFORD ALEXANDER ELDER.
(Contributed.) The death has occurred of Telford Alexander, third son of Mr and Mrs James Elder, “Altowe,” Waipounamu. For several weeks he had complained of feeling unwell, but there was no indication that his sickness was of a very serious nature. As he did not improve, however, medical aid was sought. After examination the nature of the malady was fairly accurately diagnosed, but in order that he should have the benefit of the highest skill he was sent to Dunedin. He grew steadily worse, however, and in spite of all that human skill and care could do, he died. His parents were with him and his end was not lonely. The deceased was born at Kakanui, North Otago, on March 30, 1912, and was thus 21 years old at his death. He was educated at the Kakanui Primary School; upon his parents removing to Waipounamu his studies, interrupted at Kakanui, were continued at the local school. Of an industrious, plodding nature he completed his course with credit. His instincts were pastoral, and so when set free from the restraint that was learning, he began work straight away on his father’s farm. He loved his work, and everything he did he gave to it his undivided mind and the utmost of his powers. In summer, his leisure hours were spent in fishing, of which he was very fond; in winter he played hockey. He was a member of the Waipounamu Men’s Hockey Club. By nature he was of a shy and retiring disposition. He loved the sanctities of home, and the sweet seclusion of the field. Not dowered with any brilliant gifts he had that infinite capacity for taking pains which, as Carlyle says, is akin to genius. The warmth of human love meant much to him, a man in love with all that is best in life, hating strife and bitterness, and with a certain strain of sadness in his character. Strong in will, prodigal in his unselfishness, obedient to his superiors, sympathetic to his inferiors, and just to his equals, he won the hearts of everyone he touched. His loss is keenly felt. The great concourse of mourners at the graveside last Friday afternoon bore eloquent testimony to the hold he had on the hearts of the people, and to the respect in which the members of the family are held. The grave was hidden by numerous wreaths. A memorial service was held in the Riversdale Presbyterian Church on Sunday evening last. The church was packed. The deceased’s favourite hymns were sung. Miss Sheila Stevenson, of Wendon, sang very effectively “He wipes the tear,” and the choir sang the anthem “There is a hand immortal.” The preacher, after speaking on “Beholding the Face of Christ” dwelt at length on the qualities and character which endeared Telford Alexander Elder to all. The Rev. John Newlands officiated at both services. -Southland Times, 2/3/1934.
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