24/62 Rifleman William Manus Butler, (31/10/1893-9/10/1916). "they miss him most"

Rifleman William Manus Butler (who was killed in action in France on September 15 last) was the eldest son of Mr Wm. Butler, of Bradshaw street. The deceased was born at South Dunedin, and was educated at St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic School, South Dunedin. Upon leaving school he was apprenticed to H. E. Shacklock, Ltd., as a moulder. Owing to ill health, however, he was compelled to leave this firm, and obtained employment as an engine-cleaner on the New Zealand railways at Dunedin. Shortly after this he was transferred in the same vocation to Omakau (Otago Central). He remained there for about two and a-half years, and was then promoted to the rank of fireman, being stationed at Dunedin. On August 10, 1914 (a few days after the outbreak of the war), he enlisted, and left with the advance party for Samoa. About December, 1914, he was invalided home, and shortly afterwards resumed work on the railway, and was soon transferred to Westport, whence in May, 1915, he again enlisted, and left New Zealand as a member of the New Zealand Rifle Brigade. He also took a keen interest in athletics, and was a member of the Southern and Omakau Football Club, besides being an energetic member of the Omakau Tennis Club. The deceased was in his 23rd year.  -Evening Star, 4/10/1916.

William Butler did not doe on September 15, 1916, a day during which his Brigade advanced against German positions in the Battle of the Somme.  He was seriously wounded in the head and died the following month.

IN THE EMPIRE'S CAUSE.

IN MEMORIAM. 

BUTLER. — In loving memory of William Manus Butler (N.Z. Rifle Brigade and Advance Samoan Forces), who died on October 9, 1916, at No. 12 Rouen Hospital, France, from wounds received while in action at the Somme, September 16, 1916. R.I.P. 

They miss him most who loved him best.

— Inserted by his loving parents, brothers, and sister. 

BUTLER. — In loving memory of Will (2nd Battalion, N.Z.R.B.), who died in France on October 9, 1916, from wounds received while in action on the Somme on September 15; in his 23rd year. 

There is one link Death cannot sever, 

Loving remembrance remains for ever. 

— Inserted by B. Gallagher.  -Otago Daily Times, 9/10/1917.

Andersons Bay Cemetery, Dunedin.