Harry Stokes

Greenough Sun Thursday 30th July 1953

Vale! William Henry Stokes

One of the best-known farmers of the Mullewa District and a farmer of the Tenindewa area in William Henry Stokes passed away suddenly at the Mullewa District Hospital on Sunday last at 5.35 p.m.

Born at the Greenough Flats in 1883, the deceased gentleman was a son of pioneers of that area; his father bore the same Christian names. Some 47 years ago he took up farming at Tenindewa [1906] and over the years by hard work he actively extended his farming pursuits until at the time of his death he and his three sons (William Henry and Don) owned some 12,000 acres (4800 hectares)
Apart from his three sons mentioned above, the late gentleman is survived by 3 daughters in Mrs. V. F. Franklin, Mrs. P. Byron and Miss Audrey Stokes, all of Tenindewa. He was predeceased by his wife by 20 years.
Mr. Stokes was an active sportsman in his earlier days, representing Tenindewa at both cricket (he was a fast bowler of no mean prowess) and football. He was a foot runner of no mean ability, and also took an active interest the horse racing events of Tenindewa’s earlier years.
Late gentleman had been a member of the Mullewa Road Board some years ago and throughout his life continued to take an interest in local government affairs. He was also a member of the Mullewa Agricultural Society and the local branch of the Farmers Union.
Although Mr. Stokes had been in hospital for 12 days, he was bright and cheery late Sunday afternoon and, in fact, one of his greatest friends (their association dated back to childhood) in Mr. George Bone was chatting with him until 4.45 pm, and his sudden death came as big shock to many friends.
(Further details will appear next issue –Ed.)