In this article we remember David Dunderdale, former Diocesan Secretary for Blackburn Diocese, who passed away recently. 

The following reflection is written by the retired Archdeacon of Blackburn, The Venerable John Hawley. 

Archdeacon John writes ... David, pictured right, who was born in Burnley in 1932 and went to Burnley Grammar, worked first for the National Coal Board and then trained as an accountant. in later life David lived in Ramsgreave in Blackburn. 

He became Diocesan Secretary under Rt Rev. Robert Martineau who was Bishop of Blackburn from 1972 to 1981 and then served under Martineau's successors Stuart Cross and Alan Chesters.

David, or 'DD' as he was known, ran a very tight ship in Church House and was very down to earth and practical, with a quick wit, and a dry sense of humour. Bishop Alan was known to view him as a trusted, reliable and faithful man who valued true friendship.

David believed that clergy should be priests 24/7 - it should be a 'calling' and not a job. He respected clergy who worked hard and preached 'Jesus'.

He was happily married to Sadie, who passed away in 2011. David also lost his two grown-up sons but his personal resilience was remarkable, and all through his difficulties he was always ready to support others. David is survived by his two daughters: Ann, who still lives in Blackburn, and Helen. 

David had many interests. He supported both Burnley FC and Blackburn Rovers and he loved taking his family to the Lake District walking. He caravanned with Sadie all over Europe. DD also loved his cars and had an interest in trains too.

He was also a Rotarian and was twice the President of Blackburn Rotary Club, receiving the 'Paul Harris Award' for service. He proved himself a wonderful Toastmaster and after-dinner speaker. He was also served as a Justice of the Peace. 

David played golf in his later years at Pleasington and Wilpshire and usually played with local clergy. DD had a love of whisky and enjoyed evenings out with his friends at The Bonny Inn at Salesbury. In later life he also loved reading the Daily Telegraph each day, and watching sport on Sky TV.

Speaking about his predecessor, the current Diocesan Secretary, Graeme Pollard, said: "David was a hard act to follow. The high esteem in which he was held was clearly evidenced during his funeral service at Pleasington Crematorium when I was privileged to hear the many tributes from family and friends who knew him well."

Ronnie Semley, January 24, 2019