9/1332 Private William John Maker, (18/4/1890-4/10/1917). "written in letters of love"

MISSING: BELIEVED TO BE KILLED.

SPECIALIST JOHN MAKER. 

Private advice was received at Balclutha on Tuesday evening Specialist William John Maker had been reported as missing, but later, as the finding of a court of inquiry, believed to be killed in action. "Jock," as he was familiarly known to a host of friends in this district, was the elder son of Mrs Wm. Maker, who for many years leased the Farmers' Arms Hotel, but now resides at Mosgiel. He was born at Balclutha, received his education at the local District High School, and later entered the employ of Messrs W. Guest arid Sons. He was in the employ of this firm before enlisting with the 6th reinforcements. He saw active service on Gallipoli, and was for some time in Egypt before going to France with the Expeditionary Force. Some time ago he was a victim of the dreaded German poisonous gas but recovered, and was able to again rejoin his company. He was a member of the local branch of the Oddfellows' Lodge in pre-war days. A brother, Tom, who enlisted at the same time, was wounded some time ago, but is now back in France. Jack was 26 years of age.  -Clutha Leader, 16/11/1917.

William Maker was killed during an attack on German positions during the Battle of Passchendaele.  He was in the Machine Gun Corps, and his job on October 4th was to carry some of the large amounts of ammunition used by the guns to harass German positions while the soldiers made their advance over the Belgian mud. It is likely that he was killed by one of the many artillery shells fired in response to the attack.

IN THE EMPIRE'S CAUSE

DEATHS

MAKER. — In fond remembrance of William John Maker (6th Reinforcements), who was killed in action "Somewhere in France," on October 4, 1917, eldest beloved son of Margaret and the late William Maker, Balclutha. 

He rose, responsive to the call. He gave his life, his best — his all. 

— Inserted by his sorrowing mother and sisters. 

MAKER. — In fond and loving memory of our dear brother. Jack, who was killed in action "Somewhere in France" on October 4 1917. 

You sleep beside your comrades, Jack, 

In a hallowed grave unknown, 

But, your name is written in letters of love 

On the hearts you left at home. 

—Inserted by his loved ones.  -Otago Daily Times, 4/10/1918.

Balclutha Cemetery.