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Somerset County Herald and Taunton Courier. Saturday 15 Dec 1962
Page 5 Column 8
Mr. Bill SWAN dies suddenly
Mr. William John Ellis SWAN, a linotype operator, who had served the 'Somerset County Gazette' for almost 50 years, died suddenly on Saturday afternoon. He was 62 and unmarried.
Mr. SWAN lived with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. W. J. E. SWAN, in the caretaker's flat above the 'Gazette' offices in Castle Green. He collapsed there while listening to a radio commentary on the Cornwall and Gloucestershire rugby match. Earlier this year he spent some time in hospital.
Born at Taunton, Mr. SWAN began work for the 'Gazette' when he left school at the age of 13. After serving his apprenticeship as a compositor, he became a linotype operator.
His father retired only two years ago, after 66 years' service with the firm.
The funeral service on Wednesday morning was at St. John's Church, which for many years Mr. SWAN had been a chorister. The service was conducted by the Rev. E. WILLIAMS, in the absence of the Vicar, and the organist was Mrs. LEE. Cremation followed at Arno's Vale, Bristol. Except for a family cross, there were no flowers, by request.
Mourners were Mrs. W. J. E. SWAN (mother), Mr. and Mrs. R. J. P. SWAN (brother and sister-in-law), Mr. and Mrs. L. T. H. SWAN (brother and sister-in-law), Mr. W. W. BRYER (uncle), Mrs. D. M. SQUIRE (cousin).
Mr. W. J. E. SWAN, father, was advised by his doctor not to attend.
Many 'Gazette' colleagues and other friends were present.
Funeral arrangements were by Mr. Leonard E. SMITH, Haydon Road, Taunton.
<NOTES: William John Ellis SWAN son of William James Ellis SWAN and Alice Maud ENGLAND>