We are sad to report that Malcolm Sadler, a past President of the Midland Unitarian Association, died in hospital on 17th October. His memorial service was held on Friday 2nd November, at Warwick Chapel, which he served faithfully for more than 50 years. Indeed it is not too much of an exaggeration to say that without Malcolm, Warwick Unitarians would no longer exist, let alone as the thriving congregation they now are.
His memorial service was a joyous occasion. Led by Rev. Ant Howe, who had been his minister at Warwick for the past few years, it included many special memories, and laughter as well as tears. It seemed peculiarly appropriate that the accompanist got stuck in traffic, so that for the first part of the service, Ant had to dash from piano to reading desk, just as Malcolm used to. The service included a tribute from his long-time friend, Peter Sampson, with whom Malcolm collaborated on the production of Let Us Sing, affectionately known as “the pink hymnbook”.
The Warwick congregation laid on a sumptuous spread afterwards for the many attenders – Malcolm was well-known and well-loved in his lifetime. Folk came from as far as Rochdale and Lancaster to pay tribute to him.
His dedication, and gentle, loving presence will be long remembered.