William Bensley (1849-1927)

Obituary
MR. WILLIAM BENSLEY. One of the old pioneers of the Crookwell district, Mr. William Bensley, died on last Sunday atternoon at his residence, "Westwood," Redground-road, Crookwell. Deceased enjoyed a fairly healthy life until a little over twelve months ago. He then had a stroke, from which he never fully recovered. This illness also impaired his mind, and he suffered from loss of memory. He would have been greatly interested in the "Back to Crookwell" celebrations, and had many interesting reminiscences to relate, if his memory had been intact.

The late Mr. Bensley was born at Cobbitty, near Camden, seventy eight years ago. At the age of seventeen years he came to Crookwell, working for his uncle, who then owned the farm known as "Springfield," about two miles from Crookwell on the Roslyn road.

A few years later he took up land under the Selection Act, about two miles along the road to Redground, naming it "Westwood," where he resided till the time of his death.

He was twice married. His first wife was a daughter of the late Mr. Charles Furner, of Camden, and his second the widow of the late Charles Stokes, of Bowral

There are six children of the first marriage, five of whom are living—one son (Percival) was accidently killed at Penrith twenty-four years ago. The other children are: Fred, Torrington, Horace (Crookwell), Leslie (Methodist Minister at Gilgandra), and Mrs. W. H. Price (Crookwell). There are two daughters of the second marriage, Miss Clarice Bens- ley and Miss Dulcie Bensley, both living at home.

Mr. Cecil Stokes, Mr. Roy Stokes (Crookwell), Harry and Arthur, and Mrs. C. Pawson (Sydney) are step-children of the deceased.

The deceased gentleman wore the white flower of a blameless life. Being of a genial disposition, he made many friends, and was the enemy of none. He was very fond of children and was a kind and considerate husband and father.

The burial service was conducted by Rev. G. W. Johnston, assisted by Rev. L. R. .Bensley (a son of deceas- ed), and the funeral arrangements were carried out by Mr. T. Kennedy.

__SHOWFACTBOX__