The devastated family of Ron Gordon have paid tribute to the late Hibernian FC chairman and reassured fans they remain committed to investing in the club.
It was recently announced by the Hibees that Ron was fighting cancer, and news of his passing at the age of 68 was delivered by the Easter Road club on February 21.
Following the shock announcement, tributes have flooded in for the well-loved executive chairman, with the family thanking fans and the club for their support.
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In a statement published on the club's official page, the family wrote: "Ron was a beloved husband, father, and brother. As we grieve his death as a family, we are immensely grateful for the tremendous outpouring of love and support we have received from the Hibernian family.
"From day one, it was clear to us that Hibs is more than just a football club, it is a big family. The last few days have reaffirmed this.
"When our hearts were broken, the sunshine from Leith brought some much-needed light into our lives. We cannot thank you enough for your kindness and generosity.
"We've been overwhelmed by the countless messages, flowers, and tributes honouring Ron's work and thanking him for all he did at Hibernian in pursuit of moving the club forward. Every single gesture has touched our hearts."
They continued: "We are also incredibly grateful for the affection shown by our wider footballing family in Scotland.
"We’d like to extend our thanks to Ben Kensell, the Executive Team and staff at the Club, and the Board of Directors for their unwavering support during this difficult time for our family.
"Ron’s passion, love, and enthusiasm for the Club was contagious from the get-go and was shared by us all. As a family we have fallen in love with the Football Club and Edinburgh. It has become a home to us.
"Ron saw himself as a steward of this great football club and was always conscious of its role in the community and this wonderful city."
They added: "His goal had always been to build the club into the best version of itself. As a family, and organisation, we are more determined than ever to see this through.
"We remain committed to Ron’s vision and long-term plan, supporting all facets of the Football Club, and working with you all to achieve it.
"With pride, we will continue to invest in the First Team, Academy, Women’s Team, club infrastructure and the Community Foundation. We will continue to meet Ron’s and our supporters’ high expectations to achieve sustained success on and off the pitch.
"Ron will be missed terribly, but together, we will continue to build on the legacy of this historic club."
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Dozens of fans paid tribute to the late Hibernian FC executive chairman.
Euan Denholm said: "Amazing words. I have every faith in you as a family to do what's best for the club. Bless you all."
Another fan wrote: "Ron is missed by us all. His enthusiasm was not only infectious but soothing as well. We haven’t always enjoyed Club stewards who were invested beyond the spreadsheet.
"Ron was an anomaly. He started as an owner looking for an investment and, over time, became a fan and a part of the Hibee Nation."
They added: "It’s been a while since we felt this type of loss, generally reserved for ex-playing staff. I openly grieve our loss as a mark of respect for not just what Ron did but his vision for our future.
"Thank you Ron."
While Amy Keith said: "Glory glory to the Hibees, let’s do it for Ron."
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