DRENDEL, Carl Richard “Jock”

Tributes

• Douglas Stokes'

  To my ex-wife and partner for 11yrs Mel & my 2 step children Tahlia & Brennon. I was so shocked when Tahlia told me about jock’s passing. Mel I’m sending you all the sympathy I can coz I know how much your going to be hurting right now. Stay strong and my thoughts are with you.

• Addison, damien and jasmine

  we loved our pop/dad and never thought different he was our everything, we are forever grieving without him in our world. pop/dad was a very well known guy and everyone loved him, he was a very nice, caring , and loving guy. pop/dad will forever be our world forever and no one will ever replace his spot in our hearts, pop/dad got along with anyone and everyone no one could ever hate pop/dad he was so sweet and everyone adored him.

  we love you pop/dad always and foreverx

• Tahlia Lee

  When I think of Poppa, my heart overflows with gratitude for the countless cherished memories he gave us. He wasn’t just a grandfather—he was a guide, a teacher, and the heart of so many of our happiest moments.

  Poppa had a special way of nurturing our passions. When Brennon was little and obsessed with trains, Poppa encouraged that love in every way he could. I’ll always remember how Brennon would run outside at the sound of a train, standing on the fence, shouting with excitement. Poppa, who worked on the railways, made it even more special by taking Brennon on the train tracks. Together, they journeyed through tunnels, crossed bridges, and made memories that Brennon treasured forever.

  For me, sleepovers at Poppa’s house were unforgettable. I begged for them because they were always so full of fun and excitement—there was never a dull moment. Poppa had little routines that made me feel so cared for. He always woke me up when he got up in the middle of the night for the loo as he knew I was scared of the dark and would be too scared to go by myself. His warmth and thoughtfulness shone through in those small, loving gestures.

  I’ll never forget the simple joy of sitting in Poppa’s spa after school or in the evenings. We’d laugh and chat, and those moments, as ordinary as they seemed, meant everything to me. His garden was another special place. I’d sneak around eating his snow peas when he wasn’t looking, giggling to myself as I enjoyed their sweetness.

  Time with Poppa often meant sitting in the garage or out the back, snacking on pickled onions or seafood, watching football, and chatting about the game. He’d always have a beer in hand, and it became my job to grab him a fresh one when he finished. Of course, I couldn’t resist sneaking a cheeky sip before handing it over—I think he knew, but he never said a word.

  Poppa’s adventures were always something to look forward to. I’ll always remember visiting his mate’s place to pick yams. What seemed like a simple task became a fun adventure, digging through the dirt and feeling the thrill of each find. Always finishing the day sitting around the fire. He had this way of making even the smallest things feel exciting and special.

  Two trips stand out as some of my favourite childhood memories with Poppa. One was a trip to Milang with him and Von. We stayed at a motel during a scorching summer, spending our days swimming in the lake, cooling off, and simply enjoying each other’s company. The other was a camping trip to Ned’s Landing, where the family enjoyed each others company and relaxed by the riverbank whilst us kids ran a muck. Those moments were pure joy, filled with laughter and peace.

  As I grew up and moved away, whilst we did not see each other as much we would keep in touch over the phone. Though our phone calls were few and far between, they were always meaningful. We’d chat on birthdays, Easter, Christmas, and sometimes in between, talking about our veggie gardens, fishing trips, camping plans, or how Port and the Hawks were doing. Those short, sweet conversations always left me feeling close to him.

  One of my most treasured recent memories is from the family reunion at Lake Cullulleraine. I got to spend quality time with Poppa, sitting in deck chairs at the caravan park, reminiscing over good food and drinks, and sharing countless laughs. It was a perfect weekend and a reminder of just how special Poppa was to all of us.

  Poppa filled our lives with love, laughter, and so many unforgettable memories. He had a heart of gold and a way of making everyone feel cherished. Though he’s no longer with us, his spirit lives on in the stories we share and the lessons he taught us. Poppa was one of a kind, and I’ll carry his love with me always.

• Russell Dabinett

  Condolences to all Jocks families and friends. Growing up in Parilla when Carl Drendal arrived in town was a great time to be alive amongst all the fun that came with country life. Never a dull moment wherever Jocks desire for a good time with whoever was around, be it at sport, work or social stuff. Lucky to have lived in his lifetime RIP Champ

• Kendall McLean

  To Von and family,

  I am truly saddened to hear of the passing of my Great Uncle Carl. He was a great down to earth man, who I always enjoyed spending time with. We had many conversations or maybe I would call them arguments, about the football and who was better at tipping. I’ll cherish the times spent camping, your visit to Roxby Downs and our family reunions at the lake. Apologies I can’t be there in person tomorrow, but please know my thoughts will be with you all. He will be greatly missed, and he will always hold a special place in my heart.

  My deepest condolences,

  Kendall McLean xx