Hibs have announced the passing of executive chairman Ron Gordon.
The majority shareholder recently shared an open letter with supporters to let them know he had been receiving treatment for cancer for much of the past year. The club has confirmed today's sad news with chief executive Ben Kensell paying tribute and sending the thoughts of everyone connected with the club to his wife Kit, his sons and the rest of his family.
A club statement read: "Hibernian FC today announced that the club’s Executive Chairman and majority shareholder, Ronald J Gordon, passed away earlier this morning. (UK time). Ron recently wrote an open letter to supporters, telling them that he had been receiving treatment for cancer for much of the past year.
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"Ron had a passion for football and through Hibernian FC his dream, commitment and love came to the fore, whilst always ensuring the club became the best version of itself to leave a lasting legacy. The Gordon Family are determined to see this through.
"Ben stressed the family’s commitment to continue to work to deliver Ron’s long-term vision and plan for the club, with the support of the Board and the senior executive. He said: “As part of that determination, we will hold our AGM in early March. There will be no further comment from the club or family at this time.”
Ben Kensell, Chief Executive of Hibernian, said: “Everyone at the club is deeply saddened at the news. Our thoughts are with Ron’s wife Kit, his sons Ian and Colin, and the rest of the Gordon family. Ron may have been our chairman and owner, but he was first and foremost a devoted family man with a close and loving family.
“We would ask that at this difficult time, the family’s privacy is respected as they mourn their loss.” City rivals Hearts have also sent their condolences to the club as have a number of Premiership clubs.
The Jambos tweeted: "The thoughts of everyone at Heart of Midlothian are with Ron’s family, friends and colleagues across the city at this desperately sad time."
St Mirren posted: "The thoughts of all at St Mirren are with Ron's loved ones at this difficult time. Rest in peace, Ron."
Motherwell added: "Our thoughts and condolences are with Ron’s family, friends and all at Hibernian FC. Rest in peace, Ron."
The likes of Rangers, Dundee United, Livingston, St Johnstone, Falkirk and Dunfermline has also left tributes.
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