Doing our bit, Mosman 1914-1918 -- Joseph Kenneth Donaldson †

confirmed

Born: 26 December 1886

Died: 20 August 1915

Lieutenant J. Kenneth Donaldson (reported missing and wounded on August 22) left with B Company, 18th Battalion. He had previously had some years' experience in military matters, having originally joined the military forces as a private in St George's English Rifle Regiment and subsequently gained his commission early in 1912. This regiment later became the 31st Infantry under the Universal Training Act, and Lieutenant Donaldson was appointed as militia adjutant, which position he held about two years. In civil life he was connected with Mr. E. A. Julius, consulting engineer, Sydney. Lieutenant Donaldson is a son of the late Mr. John Donaldson of Brisbane, and of Mrs. C. T. Toppin, of Perth, Western Australia. He is a married man, and his wife is now residing with her parents, Mr and Mrs Napier-North, of Doondi, Alma-street, Mosman. - The Sydney Morning Herald, 11 September 1915

Known as Ken. Only son of the Hon. John Donaldson, of Brisbane, and Mrs. Toppin, Perth, W.A.

Engaged May 1915, married 2 June 1915 at St Clement's, Mosman, to Doris, oldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. C. F. Napier North, "Doondi", Almora Street, Mosman.

Wife Doris was the leader of the Mosman Merrymakers, a concert party raising money for the War Chest, Australian Comforts Fund and other patriotic purposes. Doris is pictured in this photo of the Merrymakers.

Killed in action, Hill 60, Gallipoli.