Rudland Wells, William

William Rudland Wells was born on May 23, 1879 in Lewisham, England. Not much is known about his childhood, but he did have a sister, Sarah who lived in Kent, England. As a young man, William immigrated to Canada and lived for a time in Edmonton, Alberta. Prior to enlistment, he had been staying in Lethbridge and working in the nearby coalmines. On April 20, 1916, William Rudland Wells enlisted with the 61st Battery 15th Brigade Canadian Field Artillery. Gunner Rudland Wells arrived in England on September 22, 1916 aboard the SS Cameronia. Shortly after his arrival, he became very ill and was hospitalized for nearly a month. On December 11, 1916, Gunner Rudland Wells was discharged from the hospital, but sadly, three days later, on December 14, he died suddenly. The cause of death was determined to be a apoplexy caused by a cerebrovascular accident. Gunner Rudland Wells was laid to rest at Milford Cemetery. William Rudland Wells was awarded the British War Medal. His wife, Mrs. B. Rudland Wells received a Memorial Cross and death plaque in honour of her husband