6/1301 Private William Griffiths, (16/12/1890-16/12/1918). "a tiger for tight work in the scrum"

The many friends of the Griffiths family, of Birchfield, learned with deep regret on Monday of the passing away of Mr William Griffiths, eldest son of Mr George Griffiths. Death was due to pneumonia, following on the attack of enteric at Gallipoli, from which deceased had never fully recovered. Mr William Griffiths was a fine type of a young man, of stilling qualities and endeared himself to all who were acquainted with him. He sailed with the Main Body, and rendered excellent service at Gallipoli until a severe attack of enteric compelled his return to New Zealand. Deceased was a very popular figure on the football field. He played for the Birchfield Club, then for Waimangaroa, and Denniston combined. He also represented Buller against West Coast in 1913. Since his return from the front, he had played for Hill United seniors, and captained Buller against Inangahua this season. He was considered the best forward in the district, was always on the ball, and was a tiger for tight work in the scrum. All who have been associated with deceased on the football field or elsewhere will regret his passing and extend condolences to the family. A brother was killed in action on the Western front and another brother is still serving with the Expeditionary Forces.   -Greymouth Evening Star, 18/12/1918.

William Griffiths' obituary describes death by pneumonia following the effects of enteric (typhoid) fever.  Another story describes it as from influenza during the 1918 pandemic.  Pneumonia was a common result of Spanish flu.

As a result of his typhoid, he was repatriated on the ss "Willochra" in 1916.

Waimangaroa Cemetery.  Photo from "Find a Grave."