Hayley McQueen has paid tribute to Elton John, who is performing at Glastonbury on Sunday night, but took time out to hail the late Gordon McQueen and acknowledge the family on the day of his passing several weeks ago.
McQueen, who formerly played for Manchester United and Leeds United, died age of 70 following a battle with dementia earlier in June. His daughter, Hayley, a regular figure on our screens through Sky Sports News, was shattered by the news.
She later found out that Elton, who himself has a long connection with football as a Watford fan, mentioned Gordon during one of his shows. Another of Gordon's children, Eddie, is a chef and toured with Elton, who sent his condolences to the family which has left its mark on Hayley.
She posted the video on Twitter alongside the words: "Elton John performed in Aberdeen the day my dad died and we later found out he did this. Tonight I’ll have a drink whilst watching the legend himself at Glastonbury. A little light relief in this darkness."
The British musician is taking centre stage tonight at the Somerset-based festival with Hayley tuning in as she comes to terms with her father's passing. She wrote an emotional statement after his death which read: "Dad. Beyond heartbroken to announce we have lost our wonderful dad, I thought when the day came I'd be prepared and feel a sense of relief that he is no longer trying to battle this awful disease but I just feel numb.
"I'm hoping we can now remember him for the man he was and not the man he became these last few years. We thought we were losing him when home palliative care came to look after him back in December, we were distraught but being the big strong man that he is, battled on for many months.
"Whilst it's been unimaginably sad and at times unbearable for my mum who has cared for him at home we've had precious time with him whilst this cruel disease and all that comes with it completely took over, he certainly put up a fight. One comfort was he knew all his friends and family right till the end but to watch someone slowly die I wouldn't wish on anyone.
"I now want to remember my Dad for the man he was, the ultimate entertainer, the life and soul of every occasion, the greatest storyteller who certainly lived life to the full, he made sure everything was one big adventure and full of so much fun for me, Anna and Eddie.
"His career gave me one too and I will be forever grateful for him passing on so much of who is and what he loved. Life really won’t be the same without him but he is now at peace. (A big thanks to my employers Sky Sports who have been incredible throughout this and for all the time off and support they've given me this last year or so)."
