Arthur Rendle
1 November 1913 – 29 March 2009
Arthur was born in Port Navas on November 1st, 1913 the youngest, together with his twin sister Marjorie, of a family of seven. He went to school, first in Constantine and then in Ponjeravah, and on leaving school he was apprenticed to a carpenter, Moss of Falmouth. Unusually, he also served a second apprenticeship as an engineer under Mr Thomas of Port Navas (Sally’s and Robin’s father). These skills served him well during the 2nd World War when he was required to service and maintain secret naval vessels, belonging to the SOE, based in the Helford River.
After the war he worked for the Duchy of Cornwall Oyster Farm at Port Navas, driving their delivery van and maintaining the machinery and the engines of the oyster dredging boats – work he continued until his retirement in 1978. He had much to keep him occupied in retirement, with his boats, fishing and general DIY. He was a keen supporter of village activities, particularly the annual Regatta, and was delighted when Port Navas Village Hall came into being. He was also a lifelong member of Port Navas Methodist Chapel and was Chapel Steward for many years.
He is pictured here proudly displaying “Wings”, awarded to him following a flight (his first ever) from Culdrose Naval Air Station, in a light aircraft, kindly arranged by members of the village, to celebrate his 90th birthday.
When Arthur’s health deteriorated he moved first to Langholme in Falmouth, and then to Porthgwara Nursing Home at Coverack where he died on March 29th, 2009. His dry wit (at the age of 95) surprised and delighted the nurses who were only too happy to engage him in light-hearted banter. He will be sadly missed by friends, by visitors to the village, and by his niece and nephews.
