Rushden Echo, 22nd March 1918, transcribed by Kay Collins
Sergeant Dennis Pashler
Higham Ferrers Soldier’s Death – Makes the Supreme Sacrifice
It is with sincere regret that we report that Mrs. George Pashler, of 6 Thrift-street, Higham Ferrers, has received unofficial news of the death in action of her only son, Sergt. Dennis Pashler, of the King’s Royal Rifles. The deceased soldier, who was 25 years of age, made the great sacrifice on behalf of his King and country on Sunday March 10th.
The sad news is sent by one of his comrades, who writes under date March 11th, as follows: “It is with the deepest regret that I write to inform you of the death of your son Dennis, which took place on Sunday March 10th, about 7p.m. This, I know, will be a terrible blow to you, but I felt it would afford you some little consolation to hear from one of his friends. You may rest assured that his death was instantaneous. The deepest sympathy of all who knew him goes out to you in your great trouble. Headquarters sergeants, who have been his closest friends for the past few months, found him always so willing, and he was a great favourite with all whom he came in contact with. We have lost a friend of the very best, one who will be missed greatly by us all for his cheery disposition. It will be a consolation to you to know your son Dennis was buried with all reverence, and a few of his personal friends were at the graveside. The service was conducted by the battalion chaplain (Rev. E. G. Griffiths), and the battalion has erected a cross over his grave. I hope and trust that the information I have been able to give you will help at least a little to console you in your great bereavement.”
The late Sergt. Pashler joined the Colours three years ago, and had been in France about twelve months when he died so bravely. It is but a fortnight since he was home on leave. Before enlistment he was employed by Messrs. Charles Parker, of Higham Ferrers, and for many years was an N.C.O. in St. Mary’s Church Lads’ Brigade, also being a members of the Parish Church Choir from his boyhood’s days. Much sympathy is felt with his mother and sisters in their grievous sorrow.
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