Alfred Douglas Masters Obituary 1984

OBITUARY

Alfred Douglas Masters

It is with deep regret that we record the death at the age of 65 after a long illness of Fred Masters, one of the best-known growers in Hawke’s Bay.

Fred’s association with the fruit industry goes back a long way. At a young age he lost his father and soon after undertook the big responsibility of running the family orchard, originally planted by his grandfather. Times were far from bright and Fred recently recalled the year of the big freeze when he went apple packing in Nelson to keep the pot boiling.

Over the years he developed his property, ‘Appledore’, into one of the show orchards of Hawke’s Bay, and in more recent years he planted and brought into production ‘Ngaroma’ which is now operated by his son, Bob. Another son, Tony, operates ‘Appledore’, and a younger son, Kerry, is fruitgrowing near Melbourne.

Along with his own work Fred devoted considerable time to the welfare of his fellow growers, serving as an executive member, then as Secretary and later on two occasions as President of the Hawke’s Bay Fruitgrowers’ Association. For his work in this field he was elected a life member of the Association. In addition, he was for three years a grower member of the Apple and Pear Board.

Well known in most fruit-producing areas of New Zealand, Fred was admired for his friendly nature and his happy approach to life. The packed St Matthews Church in Hastings for his service clearly indicated the high esteem in which he was held by all sections of the community.

Sincere sympathy is extended to his wife, Molly, daughters Jill (USA), Barbara and Tricia (Australia) and sons Kerry (Australia) and Bob and Tony (Hastings).