Ken Singleton 1927 - 2008

Ken Singleton

The following obituary first appeared in the March 2008 issue of Meldreth Matters.

Readers will be saddened to learn that Ken Singleton died on 2nd February.

Ken was born in Hackney in 1927. His ambition was to be a professional pianist, so to this end he enrolled as a student of the Royal Academy of Music. He was perhaps, his own most severest critic, when he decided that he was unlikely to reach the top flight of concert pianists. Undaunted, he enrolled at London University and successfully studied for a degree in chemistry.

As a graduate chemist, Ken’s first appointment was to a company located in Berkhamsted. There he met Muriel who was to be his wife for 57 years. Career developments resulted in a move to Aero Research of Duxford (later to become Ciba Geigy) where he worked until his retirement in 1991.

Away from his office, Ken’s greatest love was amateur dramatics. Both he and Muriel joined Duxford Players in 1957 and were active members unt il it was disbanded nearly 40 years later. During this period Ken acted in, produced and directed plays, reviews and pantomimes which were staged in village halls, schools and care homes throughout the district. Latterly many will recall Ken’s appearances in the “Frollies” in Meldreth Village Hall. Ken was blessed with a fine voice. This ensured his welcome by the Walmisley Singers and latterly Royston Choral Society.

It was fortunate for Meldreth when in 1968 Ken and Muriel moved to Flambards Close. Fortunate for the willingness with which Ken would step forward when others were reluctant to accept office in various organisations. For example Ken was an accomplished painter in watercolours and attended classes at Melbourn Village College. When the classes were wound up Ken formed a new group to enable the remaining members to continue with their hobby. He was subsequently an active member of Meldreth Art Group. This enthusiasm for “getting things done” was also apparent when for nine years Ken was Chairman of the Village Hall Committee and also for many years Chairman of Flambards Residents Association.

It was surely at Meldreth Bowls Club that Ken’s willingness to accept office was paramount. Since joining in 1968 he had occupied the offices of Treasurer, Secretary, Fixtures Secretary and Chairman, often for extended periods. His loyalty was recognised when in 2003 he was elected President of the Club.

Ken made an enormous contribution to the quality of life for many residents of this village. We extend our sympathy to Ken’s wife Muriel, children Penny, Vivien and Graeme and other members of his family.