The family of Ron Gordon insist they are ‘more determined than ever’ to complete the late Hibernian owner’s ‘vision and long-term plan’ for the club.
The US-based businessman passed away aged 68 last week after losing his brave battle with cancer.
His family have thanked fans and the ‘wider footballing family in Scotland’ for their support since the death of the Peru-born tycoon.
And they have moved to remove any doubts over the future direction of Hibs by pledging to continue investing in the club in a bid to ‘achieve sustained success on and off the pitch’.
Gordon assumed control of the Edinburgh outfit from Sir Tom Farmer and Rod Petrie in 2019 and oversaw a period of massive change at Easter Road.
Despite his sudden passing, less than three weeks after he revealed his cancer diagnosis publicly, Gordon’s family are adamant they have no intention of walking away from Hibs, insisting they have ‘fallen in love with the football club and Edinburgh’.
A statement read: “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.
“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.
“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.”