- Another esteemed resident of Perth for over half a century passed out of this life on Tuesday evening, May 29, 1923, in the person of Mrs. (Hon) Peter McLaren at the family home "Nevis Cottage" on Drummond Street, West. Although in uncertain health for some time, her death was sudden and unexpected and came as a severe shock to her relatives and wide circle of acquaintances. The Late Mrs. McLaren was formerly Sophia Elizabeth Lees, a daughter of the late Mr. William Lees, ex-MP and Mary Playfair of Playfairville, an officer in the Imperial Army and once a noted man in this locality, and she was born in Fallbrooke 78 years ago.
In 1867 she was married to the late Mr. Peter McLaren, then a pioneer lumberman and afterwards Hon. Senator McLaren. After their marriage they came to Perth to reside. In 1916 they celebrated their golden wedding. In all the years of their married life Mrs. McLaren was a true and loving helpmate to her husband. Four years ago last month, May 23rd 1919, Senator McLaren passed away. The late Mrs. McLaren was of a quiet manner and happy disposition which made her many friends in St. James Church of which she was a member, and in the community, she took an active interest in everything that contributed to the community's well-being. She was of valuable assistance in various ways to St. James Church and her deeds of kindness and charity to many in the community were freely given.
The late Mrs. McLaren is survived by three daughters, Mrs. F. W. Hall; Miss Kathleen, of Perth; Mrs. Benedict, of Toronto; two sons, Messrs. James L. P., of Perth; William L., of North Burgess; a sister Miss Lees of Perth; three brothers, Messrs. William, of Pincher Creek, Alta.; Dr. Frederick and Andrew, of Vancouver; a half-sister, Mrs. Inderwick, of Perth and three half brothers, Messrs. James, Guy and Albert of Vancouver.
The funeral was held on Thursday afternoon to Elmwood cemetery with Rev. Dr. Bedford-Jones, Rector of St. James Church, officiating at the services at the home and grave.
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