**Joke book celebrates memory of young hockey player lost to meningitis**
A quarter of a century after the sudden loss of Eddie Rosen, who passed away from meningitis at just 18 years old, friends and family have come together to launch a unique tribute that aims both to celebrate his life and raise awareness about the disease. The newly released “Big Eddie’s Joke Book” was conceived and compiled by Eddie’s friends, teammates from the Gunners Hockey Club in London, and their families as a testament to his vibrant personality and love of humour.
Eddie Rosen, son of the acclaimed children’s author and poet Michael Rosen, was actively involved in the youth hockey programme at Arsenal in the Community before his untimely death in 1999. His charm and trademark sense of fun left a lasting impact on everyone he encountered, inspiring this creative effort on the 25th anniversary of his passing.
This heartfelt compilation brims with jokes, limericks, and light-hearted stories that paint a vivid picture of Eddie’s playful nature. Contributors include a diverse circle of those whose paths crossed with Eddie during his short life, reinforcing the sense of community and reminiscence that lies at the book’s core.
Freddie Hudson, who coached Eddie during his time with Arsenal’s youth hockey scheme and now serves as head of Arsenal in the Community, described the project as a “fitting way to remember Eddie.” Hudson commented, “Humour was at the core of the Gunners Hockey set-up, and Eddie truly was a master of it. We hope that by reading the book, people will find themselves smiling and, in doing so, keep Eddie’s spirit very much alive.”
The initiative carries an additional aim: helping support the work of the Meningitis Research Foundation. By sharing happiness, those involved hope to aid the fight against the disease that claimed Eddie’s life. All proceeds from the sales will go towards funding research and raising public knowledge of meningitis—a condition that remains a threat worldwide.
Charlotte Ulett, senior events and community manager at the Meningitis Research Foundation, spoke warmly of the book’s dual purpose. She remarked, “Meningitis can strike without warning and affects people of all ages. Our vision is for a world where no one needs to fear this illness. What makes this book truly special is the way it allows people to connect with Eddie’s joyous spirit, all while spreading crucial awareness. Turning laughter into a way to save lives is a powerful legacy.”
Michael Rosen, renowned for his own wit and literary contributions, has previously spoken movingly in interviews about coping with his son’s death. The family’s support for this project highlights how they have channelled their grief into positive action, furthering Eddie’s memory through joy and social contribution.
The wider hockey community, along with the Arsenal in the Community programme, have also shown support, demonstrating the strong bonds forged through shared challenges and memories. The book’s publication stands as a testament not only to Eddie’s life, but also to the resilience and unity of those mourning his loss.
Twenty-five years have passed since Eddie’s unexpected passing, yet his laughter still resonates among those who knew him. With every joke that brings a smile, the book renews hope that greater understanding of meningitis may prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Anyone wishing to support the cause can purchase “Big Eddie’s Joke Book,” knowing their contribution supports ongoing research, raises awareness—and honours a well-loved young man who brought light-heartedness to those around him.