Fred Hunter, whose illness was reported in last week's Journal, passed away last Saturday morning at 10:30 o'clock. The news of his death was a severe blow to his many friends, the majority of whom were not aware of the seriousness of his illness. Death was caused by peritonitis, following appendicitis, which caused the deceased to take to his bed just a week before the end. During his short illness he rallied several times and those near to him were given the hope that he would survive the attack.
Charles Frederick Hunter was born in Warren county, Pennsylvania, August 29, 1867, and resided in that state until 1890, when he removed to Blaine, residing here since. Two years later he entered the mill business here and at the time of his death we interested in the Erie Mill Company, the East & West Lumber Company, and the Campbell River Lumber Company. On February 13, 1896, he was united in marriage to Miss Frankie Tolford, at Latona, Wash., who with one son, survives him. Four sisters, Mrs. W. J. Shepard of this city, Mrs. J. B. Henry of Albany, N. Y., Mrs. W. L. Wade of Denver, Col., and Mrs. Mabel Chapman of Seattle and one brother, T. A. Hunter of this city, survive also.
The deceased was one of the best known men in Blaine and it can truthfully be said that he was one of the most universally respected men in Blaine. A man of upright character, industrious and unassuming man at all times, he was held in the highest esteem by all. For many years he personally managed the Erie shingle mill here, and in this capacity came directly in contact with the workmen, a large number of whom paid their last respects to their former employer at the funeral services. The funeral services were conducted by Rev. C. B. Seely from the M. E. church Monday afternoon at 2:00 o'clock. The church was filled to capacity and many were compelled to stand outside during the ceremony. The floral offerings to the departed were among the most numerous ever seen here. The sorrowing wife and son and members of the family have the sympathy of the community in their sudden bereavement.
