Michael Rosen’s Son Eddie Remembered: A Legacy of Laughter and Awareness 25 Years On

A Touching Tribute Through Laughter

Former teammates from the Gunners Hockey Club in London have created a special tribute called ‘Big Eddie’s Joke Book’ in memory of Eddie Rosen, the son of renowned children’s author and poet Michael Rosen, who passed away from meningitis in 1999 at age 18. The book, crafted by Eddie’s friends and their families, celebrates his life and his profound love for laughter.

Eddie’s Story and Impact

Eddie was described by his father Michael as being “very big and very funny.” His death came as a devastating shock to the family, as he had only shown symptoms that appeared to be flu-like. In a poignant tribute, Eddie’s ashes were laid to rest at Highgate Cemetery, with his gravestone bearing the touching inscription “larger than life,” words from a poem composed by Harold Rosen for Eddie’s funeral.

Raising Awareness Through Memory

The joke book serves as more than just a collection of humor – it offers “a touching tribute, giving everyone a glimpse of Eddie’s character and the fun he brought to those around him.” The initiative aims at “turning laughter into life-saving awareness” while preserving Eddie’s legacy.

Continuing Impact

Michael Rosen continues to share Eddie’s story through various mediums, including recent films about significant life events. He has created two important films, one about his experience with Covid in intensive care, and another about Eddie’s death, presenting a mixture of poems and documentary pieces. Currently, Michael Rosen is also involved in a powerful, new one-person show called ‘Getting Through It,’ partnering with Child Bereavement UK.

Through these various initiatives and remembrances, Eddie’s story continues to raise awareness about meningitis while celebrating the joy and laughter he brought to those around him during his life.