George Walter Nathan

Nathan was born at Collingwood, the son of Jewish-born Benjamin Nathan (d 1902) and Eliza née Reece and brother of Simeon (q.v.) and Benjamin (q.v.) who owned the mansion Rippon Lea.  The Nathan’s were prominent in the home furnishing industry and at the time of his death, George was managing director and chairman of board of directors of the three firms he co-founded - “Paterson’s Pty Ltd”, “Richmond Furnishing Company” and “Pears Pty Ltd”.  The Age would describe George as “a prominent figure for nearly fifty years in the furniture world of Melbourne…the death of Mr Nathan removes one of the most popular of Victoria’s pioneers in the business of home furnishing”.  Described as having “an active interest in sport”, Nathan was a member of the Carlton Bowling Club and resided at Ballara - 47 Bay Street, Brighton.  He died on 7 May 1932; hundreds attended his funeral after a service conducted by Canon E. S Hughes with a guard of honour formed by members of the staff.

(above) Former Patersons Fitzroy store, Smith Street (2004)

(above) Monumental Headstone

Source:

The Age 9 & 10 May 1932.

The Argus 9 & 10 May 1932.

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