Newspaper Article 1925 – Mr Frank Skipsey Waterhouse

Mr Frank Skipsey Waterhouse.

The late Mr Frank Skipsey Waterhouse, who passed away a few days ago at Sister Guffie’s Hospital, after a long and tedious illness, was well and favourably known throughout Hawke’s Bay and other parts of the Dominion. Born in Hobart, Tasmania, he was the grandson of a Methodist minister.  He came to New Zealand 51 years ago, and had resided here ever since, having been seven years on his uncle’s (the Hon. G. M. Waterhouse’s) run at Whangaroa, Wairarapa.  After the expiration of that time he moved to Mangawhare, Hawke’s Bay, which beautiful property he held in conjunction with his cousin, Mr John Watehouse [Waterhouse], until the latter’s death, when Mr William Fitzgerald [Fitzherbert] joined him in partnership, after whose death Mr Waterhouse remained there many years.  Unfortunately owing to failing health his removal to Napier was then found necessary.

A certain improvement in his condition enabled him to purchase that lovely spot on the Greenmeadows hills many years ago, the property of the Cato family.  There he lived happily for some time, loving to stroll about the grounds, superintending necessary work, and receiving from time to time his old friends.  The day arrived when it was deemed best to take him to Nurse Guffie’s Hospital, where he received every possible care and attention up to the time of his death.

Mr Waterhouse was twice married, on the first occasion to Miss Gertrude Lamb [Lambe], and afterwards to Miss Maud Lamb.

There are left to mourn his loss Mesdames H. M. Wilson, Jameson [Jamieson], Busby[,] Clarkson and Bramley, and Master L. Waterhouse.  The deceased was an ideal host, and many remember with the utmost pleasure the happy visits paid to him at Mangawhare.  To his employees he was always most just and kind, to his numerous friends ever true and loyal, to the clergy considerate, thoughtful, lavish in his hospitality, helping them in every possible way by notifying the Services to all his neighbours, and seeing that Divine Worship was made hearty, devotional, and helpful.

It will be hard to fill his place, as evidenced by a remark heard at the graveside.  “I have known him from childhood,” and he was always spoken of as one of the whitest men who ever lived.”  It is almost unnecessary to say that the deepest sympathy is felt for his widow, and surviving son and daughters.  Many attended the funeral at Ormond Chapel and Napier Cemetery out of respect for the deceased.  His last illness was borne with that Christian fortitude and patience which always characterised him.