William Cain

William Cain (1862 – 27 August 1932) was a Manx merchant navy officer who served as commanding officer of numerous Isle of Man Steam Packet Company vessels. Cain is remembered for ramming the German U-boat on the night of 16 February 1917, whilst in command of the Mona's Queen.

Early life William Cain, always known as Willie, in recognition of the action and in addition the Freemasons of the Isle of Man presented Capt. Cain with a suitably inscribed rose bowl to commemorate the action. the wedding taking place at Kirk Braddan. They made their family home at "Neston", Thorny Rad, Douglas. The marriage produced four children; three daughters and a son. Their son, also named William Cain, followed in his father's footsteps by joining the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company whilst their daughter Emily died in infancy. RMS Ben-my-Chree, the flagship of the IOM Steam Packet Company in which Capt. Cain sailed as Commodore

Death William Cain was in command of the Ben-my-Chree when she arrived in Douglas from Belfast on 27 August 1932. The sailing was part of a day excursion, ferrying employees of Harland & Wolff to the Isle of Man. Between the arrival and departure Capt. Cain went home to spend a few hours. However he took ill and died suddenly, the cause of his death being heart disease.

Funeral The funeral of Captain Willie Cain took place on 30 August 1932. The cortege left the family home and proceeded to St Ninian's Church where his funeral service was conducted. Following the service his body was laid to rest in Braddan Parish Cemetery.

The funeral service was attended by numerous dignitaries and high-ranking members of the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company, and included the entire ship's company from the Ben-my-Chree. Captain Cain's coffin was carried by 8 fellow Captains of the company who acted as pallbearers.