“A well-known resident of Hunterville, Mr. Stanley Bruce Abel, died suddenly on Saturday night, aged 44 years. A returned soldier of World War II., Mr. Abel was In business at Hunterville, where he also acted as the “Chronicle’s” agent and correspondent. He had wide experience as a journalist and businessman, and took a leading part in many community efforts in the town. Mr. Abel was the eldest son of a pioneer Hunterville settler, Mr. James McHardy Abel who died last Easter, and was born in Hunterville, where he also went to school. For some years Mr. Abel was on the staff of the “Rangitikei Advocate” in Marton, his duties including literary and commercial work. He was also in business in Marton, but before the outbreak of war moved to Palmerston North. Earlv in the war Mr. Abel went overseas with the Second New Zealand Expeditionary Force and served in the Middle East. After his return from war service his health was not good, but he established a stationary and news agent’s business and began to take an active part in the life of Hunterville. Possibly one of his most notable efforts was his work for the Hunterville Pipe Band, of which he was president. When uniforms and new equipment were needed, Mr. Abel took a leading part, in raising the necessary funds. He was also a vice president of the Hunterville branch of the Returned Services’ Association, president of the Hunterville girls’ marching team, and secretary of Sr Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, Hunterville. Mr. Abel is survived by his wife and a daughter Miss Joyce Abel. The funeral will leave his residence, Paraekaretu Street, Hunterville, at 4 p.m. to-day for the Rangitira Cemetery.” [Wanganui Chronicle, 22 December 1947, Page 4]