Poem for my Father Dr Derek Ernest Rendle ( 12/8/1932 - 6/3/2026)

 

It is time to say goodbye to my father 

This dear, gentle, respected compassionate soul,

Who over  many long  years listened and understood

A beautiful individual with a golden heart,

Many will not forget all the love he shared

The reassuring soothing sound of his voice,

Honest individual who gave meaning to lives

Doctor, gardener, craftsman, empathetic friend,

Offered remedies that got us through the days

With daily prescriptions of thoughtful kindness,

Dutiful, conscious, an intelligence of immense depth

Working class son of Shipwright from Plymouth,

Made a home in Wales, given a warm welcome

Ablaze with dedication, carrying a socialist faith,

Trusted and truly respected by everyone he knew

Keeping hope alive, protecting and saving lives,

When we were tired, weary and in much pain

Derek would make sure he went the extra mile,

Though pain of loss and sadness now permeate air

Memories lift us, thoughts now of rare human being,

We honour and remember his warm hearted disposition

All the challenges and obstacles he helped us overcome,

Thanks Dr Rendle for devotion to duty, for all loving care

Remembering too that not all heroes wear a cape,

Now forever dancing through the oceans of time

Will be Nimbus in the sunrise, Cirrus in daylight, 

Like his beloved NHS, treasured  and appreciated 

May this magnificent spirit, rest in peace and strength.