It is with unfeigned regret that I have to chronicle the death of Mr. George Whale, of 'Alma,' who succumbed on 28th January, from the effects of a paralytic seizure received some twelve months ago. Deceased sought the aid of the best medicos both in the country and city, but it was of no avail. He gradually pined away from a fine robust man to almost a skeleton. Last Tuesday evening he sat up late and was in a very pleasant mood, but not long after he retired, his daughter, Mrs. Reeves, was aroused by heavy breathing, and went to her father's room, where she found him in a state of unconsciousness, and friends and relatives were summoned.
Deceased passed away early on Thursday morning, leaving a widow and large family to mourn their irreparable loss.
Deceased was highly respected by all who knew him, and that evidence was borne out by the large concourse of people who followed his funeral from Lambing Hill to Gulgong, a distance of 25 miles, to pay a last tribute of respect.
The late Mr. Whale was a good enthusiastic sport, and his race horses figured on the Wellington, Gulgong, Cobbora, Leadville, Goolma, and Spicer's Creek and other courses for many years. Deceased always ran his horses for the love of the sport, and a punter that backed his horse could rely on a run for his money. The district has sustained the loss of a good man and a true friend.
Wreaths were sent by Mr. and Mrs. H. A. Murray, Mr. and Mrs. Hughes, Mr. and Mrs. and Miss Rush (Two Mile Flat). Card of sympathy from Mr. and Mrs. O'Brien, (Gulgong). Deceased was born at Mudgee in 1859, and was 59 years and 6 months old when he died. He was educated at Mudgee, and when quite a lad he went on to the diggings at Maitland Bar with his parents and worked as an alluvial miner, and also worked at the rushes at Forbes, Lambing Flat, Two Mile Flat, and Gulgong. A few years
later getting married he selected here and gradually increased his holding until he possessed a full area. He was a very energetic man. Like most of the men on the land, when he got started he was minus capital and had to shear while the little flock of sheep he first purchased had increased to an adequate number to keep him at home and work his place. By perseverance he soon made a model home, notwithstanding ravages of the periodical droughts that have prevailed during the past decade. He left his widow and family well provided for.
The Rev. E. P. O'Donnell officiated at the grave. The clergyman's panegyrics of the exemplary life that deceased had led could be well imitated by any person, as he felt certain that he always lived in harmony with God; and therefore was always ready should he be suddenly called to his long home.
To the widow and family I extend my deepest sympathy.
George Whale, 1859-1909
Source: Austcemindex
Anastasia Whales nee Hughes, 1853-1939
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The sudden death of Mr. David Whale late on Wednesday afternoon, 24th August, shocked townspeople and district residents alike. Deceased underwent an operation after his admittance to the District Hospital the day before with a spinal complaint.
He was born at Lambing Hill, Goolma, 62 years ago and up till about 22 years ago when he came into town to reside, he followed farming and grazing pursuits. After attending the Lambing Hill School, he assisted his father, Mr. David Whale, work the property now known as 'Cromer' and owned by Mr. W. M. Cooney. After his father's death, he selected land at Tucklan, where he remained for some years before coming to town and opening a fruit and confectionery shop in Mayne Street, near the Roxy Theatre. A year or two later he sold the business, and some ten years ago acquired the local undertaking business from the estate of the late Mr. R. S. Bayliss.
In business, the late Mr. Whale was most conscientious, kindly and loyal in every way. He took a keen interest in politics and was one of the stalwarts of the local Labor League. Amongst those who possessed little of the worldly goods, he was acclaimed as one of the best — one in whom confidence and trust could be imposed with implicit faith. He was hon. secretary of the Old-Age and Pensioners' Association; his efforts for that section of the community was typical of the greatness of his spirit.
David's good nature, coupled with a strong sense of humour, made him a lovable character. His familiar figure will be much missed in the town, of which he seemed to be so much part and parcel.
He served the ratepayers for some time as an alderman of the defunct Municipal Council and was some years ago president of the football club. The old bicycle club and other sporting organisation found in him a ready supporter; he loved sport for sport's sake.
The late Mr. Whale, whose wife predeceased him many years ago, is survived by the following grown-up family: Mesdames W. S. Noy and J. G. Moy (both of Gulgong) and H. Drew (Dubbo). A son, Vivian Keith, passed away about 18 years ago.
The funeral took place to the Church of England portion of the Gulgong cemetery, Rev. H. W. Ellis officiating. Arrangements were carried out by Messrs. J. Swords and Son, Mudgee.
Amongst the floral tributes was one from the Hon. W. F. Dunn, M.L.A., and Mrs. Dunn. Our sincere sympathy is extended to the bereaved ones.
Source:Mudgee Guardian and North-Western Representative (NSW : 1890 - 1954) Thu 1 Sep 1949 Page 14
David Whale, 1887- 1949
Source: Austcemindex
