Death of William Henry Walton
Auckland Chronicle report of the death of Crook man
In the full bloom of manhood Pte. Harry Walton, eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Walton, The Willows, passed away on 19 Oct. whilst on board ship between Basra and Bombay. Death was due to diabetes, contracted whilst on active duty in Mesopotamia. Deceased, who was 30 years of age, only left Crook in the early summer, and was attached to the motor transport section. News was received early last week that he had been sorely stricken with illness, but on Wednesday the further news came to hand that death had taken place on 19 Oct. Seldom has such a unanimous wave of sympathy passed over the town than when the news was made known. That a man gifted with a magnificent physique should be so suddenly stricken down was almost unbelievable. On all sides the sincerest sympathy was found with the bereaved ones, particularly with Mrs Walton, who has had a long and dangerous illness. Born in Crook, “Harry”, as he grew up was everywhere respected and esteemed. He was educated at the Board School under the late Mr J. Heaton, and later had a higher education, following which he commenced business in his father’s workshop. In later years he became his father’s right-hand man, and had a great hold on his work. With all the workmen he was a great favourite. He was a member of the Parish Church Choir, and also of the St Catherine’s Glee Society. His younger brother, Major Fred. Walton, has been twice wounded. His sister, Nellie, is a nurse in France, whilst his younger sister, Miss. Elsie, had rendered much valuable help in the Etherley VAD Hospital. Mr. and Mrs. Walton have been the recipient of a large number of sympathetic letters.
Date: 9-Nov-1916
Author: Auckland Chronicle
Reference: D/WP 4/39 Microfilm M 61/39
Where to find this: Durham Records Office
Contributed by Fiona Johnson
