Again death entered the neighborhood, and claimed one of our number in the
person of James T. Rutherford, who died at an early hour on Saturday
morning, 18 Jan 1908.
Mr. Rutherford had been a sufferer for several
years from rheumatism and stomach trouble, but his illness was only of a
few hours duration, and when it became known that Mr. Rutherford has
ceased to work and live, great was the surprise and regret.
He will
be much missed in this community, especially in the church and Sunday
school, where he was a zealous worker, occupying the positions of steward,
Bible class teacher and local preacher, all of which he performed in a
most efficient manner, and it may truly be said of him -- "Rich in
experience that angels might covet, Rich in faith that grows with
years."
Mr. Rutherford was a Scotchman, having emigrated
from his native land in company with his parents, 63 years ago, when the
deceased was only four years of age. The first part of his life was
spent in the county of Brant, where he learned blacksmithing at Mt.
Pleasant. He also served as a volunteer for several years and had
but recently received a patent for 160 acres of land in New Ontario, in
return for services during the Fenian Raid.
Mr. Rutherford moved to Walsh, a little over
twenty years ago and settled on the farm known as the Daniel B. Smith
farm, where he was residing at the time of his death.
The funeral took place on Thursday, Jan. 23, at
the Methodist Church, and was very largely attended. Three beautiful floral wreaths covered his
casket, being gifts from loving friends in the church.
Mr. Rutherford leaves to mourn his loss a widow
and nine children, Charles of Pt. Dalhousie, Theodore of Texada, B.C.,
John of Wyoming, N.Y., Wallace of Calgary, Melbourne at home, Mrs. Tyson
of Langford, Edith of Brantford, Olive and Ina and home. All but
Theodore were present at his funeral.
The bereaved family have the deepest sympathy of
the entire neighborhood in their deep sorrow, and feels that it has
sustained a very great loss, but loss is his gain, and we look forward to
the time of reunions to him again.
