Tribute to Sheila Rudling

19th February 1929 - 1st February 2021

Sheila Rudling joined Enfield Croquet Club whilst it was still just a training course for newcomers to the game, it was not until the following year in 1993 that Enfield actually became a fully fledged Club. As you will be well aware Sheila was our Life President although initially she was our first Club Treasurer and remained so up until 2005, although remaining on as a Committee member. 

Who now will dare tell us off from walking across the lawns and remind us, when we fluff a shot, that we should have followed through?

A sports lover to the last Sheila's boundless enthusiasm, hard work, willing tea-making, smiling face, encouragement and kind words, not to mention her love of the game will be sorely missed by everyone who plays on the lawns at Bush Hill Park.

Our thoughts are with her children Ben, Patti and Suzie

And here are some thoughts from those in the club who knew her ....

"We've all lost a lovely lady and she will be greatly missed. On behalf of everyone at Enfield Croquet Club we extend our sincerest condolences."

Brian and Jean Dawes

"Sad news indeed.  Good to hear however that it was peaceful and that her family could be with her.   We will miss her and at an appropriate time we will find a way to celebrate her and her contribution to the Club."

Nicola Hyde

"She was a lovely lady who will be fondly remembered and missed by many in the club."

Valerie Stanley

"Sad news indeed; a lovely lady always keen to see that everyone got to play."

Frank Palmer

"I am proud that I suggested in July 2016 that the committee invite Sheila to become our Life President, and this was agreed. Although no longer on the committee, Sheila asked if she could be an observer at our committee meetings and she attended every meeting (bar one) from that time until the beginning of lockdown in 2020.  She always gave me her support and encouragement as the ‘new’ club secretary. A sad loss for everyone, rest in peace."

Marian Cuckson

"That’s very sad...I would sometimes give her a lift home and used to enjoy telling her my best jokes...rip"

Ian Moore

"Sheila was a great ambassadorial asset to the club, the only remaining founder member. She will be sorely missed as Life President. Please pass on our condolences to the family and everyone at the club."

Henry and Linda Hobbs

"How very sad. Under normal circumstances many of us would want to be at her funeral - but things are not normal - such a shame."

Mary Grove

"Always enjoyed her company; a great loss."

Des and Jane Taylor

"Sad news, although she had a great run to 92 years. Sheila was a truly lovely lady and I still remember her early instructions on stalking the ball, she will be missed by all."

Dave Hill

"I was very sorry to hear that she had passed, but glad to hear that it was very peaceful at the end, and that she was so active until very recently. Yes, she was a lovely friendly cheery lady, and made me very welcome at the croquet club.  I’m sure she will be sorely missed, by everyone."

Sheila Hastings

"That’s so sad. Who’s going to tell me off for walking on the lawns?"

Alan Bateman

"So sorry to hear this sad news.  The croquet lawns will never be the same.  She always had a cheerful smile and an abundance of advice for us beginners.   She will be sorely missed.  I used to enjoy our little chats whilst we waited for our turn to play.  Where would I spend my sunny afternoons if it wasn’t for Sheila and the Club?  My deepest sympathy to her family for the sad loss of such a lovely lady; rest in peace dear Sheila."

Cheryle Bridgeman

"I was very fond of Sheila and so it’s sad to hear it but I always felt she drew a lot out of life. I’m glad it was a brief and painless passing for her and her family. Please pass on my condolences."

Fiona Montgomery-Baird

"Sorry to hear the sad news.  I remember the chats I had with Sheila while waiting for a game on the lawns."

Phillip Hawes

"Having known Sheila since I joined the club in the year dot I always enjoyed her company. She was a lovely person.  Would you please pass on June and my condolences to her family."

Michael and June Israel

Diana Medlicott:  Sheila was an amazing person and she will be very much missed. I was so impressed by her energy and appetite for life."

"We were very sad to hear about Sheila.  She was always so friendly and welcoming."

Peter and Helen Neal