Died 13th April 1918

Aged 37 years

Commemorated on the Poziers Memorial
Panel 1

Casualties In Great Offensive
We deeply regret to learn that Mrs. B. H. Pashler, of North-end, Higham Ferrers, has received unofficial news of the death in action of her husband, 115797, A.B. B. H. Pashler, Royal Naval Division. The sad news is sent by Lieut. D. D. Phillips, who writes under date April 19th, as follows: "Dear Mrs. Pashler,—It is my very sad duty to write to you concerning the death of your husband, R5797, A.B. Pashler, B.H.. who was killed while serving with his battalion last week. He was a good and brave soldier, and died at his post, faithful to the last. His comrades were all very sorry to hear of his death and that of his fellow-soldiers, who were killed at the same, time and in the same place. It may soften the grievous blow somewhat to know that your husband endured no pain. He was killed at once by a bursting shell.—With deepest sympathy from his comrades and myself, I have the honour to be, your obedient servant, D. D. Phillips, Lieut., A. Coy., Hood Battn., R.N.D."

The late Seaman Pashler, who was 37 years of age, leaves a widow and two children to mourn their loss. He joined the Naval Division last August, and went to France at the end of November last year. Prior to enlistment he was employed at the Higham Ferrers Co-operative Boot Productive Society, and he took a keen and active interest in the work of the Higham Ferrers Wesleyan Methodist Church, being a Poor Steward, and also a teacher in the Sunday school. He was also an enthusiastic Friendly Society worker, having held office in the Higham Woodbine Lodge of Oddfellows. Prior to enlistment he was War Savings collector at the Co-operative factory, and he was a Higham Ferrers Special Constable, being one of the most regular attendants at duty and drill.

Mrs. Pashler has received many letters of condolence in her great bereavement, amongst them being the following from the Mayor (Ald. T. Patenall): "Dear Mrs. Pashler,—I feel so grieved to hear the sad news of your husband's death, and I hasten to convey my deepest sympathy and heartfelt prayers that you may be sustained and upheld in this terrible blow. It is grievous beyond measure, and only Divine help will enable you to bear it with patience and resignation. He was a splendid fellow, highly esteemed and respected for his beautiful character and genuine Christian life, and beloved in the Church for his usefulness in both school and society, as well as a faithful and honoured citizen. I cannot pay him too high a tribute for his courage, endurance, and loyalty, not only sealed with his blood, but with a remembrance of admiration and gratitude by the whole town. It is very hard and sad for you, and we feel deeply with you in this great sorrow, but he is reaping his reward, has entered into his Master's joy and inherited victory before it has come to us. I do pray that the Living Christ, Who taught us that sacrifice was the royal road to victory, will soothe your troubled mind and bind up your broken heart, and give you grace and strength to submit to His will.—Yours very sincerely, Thomas Patenall."