Son of Edward Bretherton, commission agent, and Sarah G Bretherton, of Brookthorpe, Hampton Road. Younger brother of Alice M M, George H, Edith G, Frank A, Willoughby J, Ethel W, and Gilbert L.

Bretherton was born on 27/08/1871, and attended the School from 1882-1890. He served as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Army, with the Indian Army Reserve of Officers  attd. Supply and Transport Corps. Bretherton sadly lost his life on 13/05/1916, as a result of the War.

Buried in Ferozepore Military Cemetery, India, grave reference C. 203.