Among the fallen whose valour and sacrifice helped to make the name of Gravenstafel memorable in the history of the N.Z. Division was Lance-corporal Robert C. Marris, son of the late Mr Robt. Marris, of Duke street, Gladstone. He was born in Auckland but, early in life, came to Southland with his parents. For the last two years, being employed in a Government office, he had lived in Wellington, where his widowed mother joined him. He was a pupil of the Waihopai School, of which he was dux in 1909, winning the same year a Junior National Scholarship. He won recognition also in school games, more particularly as the clever and plucky half-back of the school Rugby team. He closed a successful career at the Southland Boys’ High School by passing the matriculation examination. Thereafter he received an appointment in the Government Statistician's office, where his ability and keenness won him rapid promotion. He enlisted with the 20th Reinforcements, leaving Wellington towards the close of last year. Arriving in England on February 18th he was detained for some time at Sling Camp owing to the outbreak of an epidemic. He was present at the Royal Parade on May 1st, and crossed to France on May 13th. On October 4th he was killed in action. The deceased, who was twenty-one years of age, received an engraved wristlet watch from his fellow employees with whom he was engaged on the National Register at the time of his enlistment. His personal qualities indeed won him many attached friends among his school contemporaries and others of later acquaintance. To all of these the news of his death will occasion deep regret. -Southland Times, 23/10/1917.
Andersons Bay Cemetery, Dunedin.
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