Thursday 30 April 2015

Whittaker, John - Lance-Corporal (26458)

Lan Corp John Whittaker
2nd Battalion,
East Lancashire Regiment,
Died: 23rd October, 1916

Commemorated Thiepval Memorial

Newspaper Report:

HASLINGDEN SOLDIER HERO - LANCE-COPORAL J. WHITTAKER

Information has been received of the death of Lance-Corporal j. Whittaker, of the 2nd East Lancashire Regiment, who was killed in action on October 23rd, 1916, at the age of 22 years.  At the time of joining the colours he was employed at Syke Mill (Messrs. John Warburton).  He was connected with King Street Wesleyan Sunday School, and was highly respected.  He has three brothers in the Army.

Newspaper Memorial Notice:

In ever loving memory of Lance-Corpl. John Whittaker, killed October 23rd 1916

"Nothing but memories as we journey on,
Longing for a smile and a face that is gone,
Love never dies although years slowly pass away,
We think of him and speak of him and miss him every day.

Ever remembered by his loving Mother, Sister, and Brothers.


In sad but proud memory of our dear son and brother L'Cpl John Whittaker who was killed in France October 23rd 1916.

Just one year ago you left us
How we miss your loving face
But you left us to remember
None on earth can fill your place.

Oft we think of you dear John
Though our hearts are sad with pain
And this world would be heaven
Could we have you back again.

Sad and oft my thoughts do wander
To the grave so far away
Where they laid my loving brother
Just a year ago today.

Dear parents, sister and brothers Good-bye.
When you think of me you should not cry
Fix your hearts on the cross, keep heaven in view
And I will wait at the gates for you.

The hardest part is yet to come
When the warriors return
And we miss among the cheering crowd
The faces of two that are gone.

From their sorrowing Mother, Sister and Brothers.

He was a brother, a brother dear
Always a friend when he was near
For all of us he did his best
May God grant him eternal rest.

From his sister-in-law Mary

We cannot Lord thy purpose see
But as is well that's done by thee.

Edna

From memory's page we'll never blot
Three little words "Forget me not"

Alice