Erin Advocate, Apr. 13, 1910  ORTON - John Near, one of the oldest residents of this section died last Wednesday, after an illness of about a month.  The cause of death was stomach trouble.  Deceased had reached the ripe old age of 82 years, and had been a resident of the village of Orton for many years.  He was an active and zealous member of the Methodist church, took a leading part in the work of that church in his neighborhood and was a man of sterling piety and honesty of purpose.  Not only did he furnish the greater part of the funds for the erection of the church building which stands near to his late residence, but he watched over it with solicitude and its success was perhaps the greatest desire of his heart.  He is survived by his wife a sister of Mrs. R. A. Reed, of Hillsburg, but no family.  There is however an adopted son, S. Near, of Toronto.  The funeral took place on Freday to the Grove cemetery, the services at the church and grave being conducted by Rev. J. Fred Kaye. 