A crowdfunder launched last week has raised thousands for the family of Alan Paterson, after his tragic death at the age of just 44.
Paterson, former manager of East Kilbride Thistle, was found dead on September 20 - leaving behind wife Julie and two sons Kian, 6, and Aiden, 10. Well known throughout the community, Alan brought smiles to residents throughout the town in his job as a postal worker and roles in football over the years.
Locals are now rallying around the family, with almost 600 donations made to the fundraiser already. John O’Connor, who organised the crowdfunder, said: “I’m a friend of Alan, and all the money will be transferred to Alan’s wife Julie who will be the beneficiary.
READ MORE - Fundraiser for Airdrie man who tragically died on holiday with friends hits £6k
“Hopefully this will help Alan’s family in this difficult time.”
After starting with a target of £2,000, the figure was raised to £14,500 - which has been far surpassed. Currently, the pot sits at £17,775 as of Tuesday.
Anyone wishing to contribute can find the fundraiser here and donate online.
Tributes have come flooding in alongside the donations for the ex-Cambuslang Rangers manager. Kevin Mooney wrote: “I worked with Alan, a really genuine guy. Utterly tragic news and a real shock.”
Michelle Nugent continued: “Absolutely gutted to hear of Alan’s passing, sending all my love to Julie, Aiden and Kian and all of the family.”
S Lindsay similarly said: “Shocked and saddened to hear of Alan’s passing. A great guy taken too soon, our thoughts are with all the family.”
Simon Ingram wrote: “Night mate, thanks for brightening our lives up for the last 25 years or so. Sorely missed already, rest easy.”
After working for several different local football teams over the years, Alan was known throughout the community by many people. Lynn and Paul Macquire recalled: “Great guy, always full of jokes, the life and soul of football at the weekend for the boys at East Kilbride FC.
“Thinking of Julie, Aiden and Kian. Sending love to you all.”
Jamie McMonagle had similar sentiments. He said: “Saddened to hear this. Well done to my former colleague John O’Conor for setting this fund up and hope it brings some comfort to Alan’s family at this time.
“Loved by many Alan, gone but not forgotten.”
Alan was forced to step down from his role as joint-manager of East Kilbride Thistle earlier this year, after he was the victim of a violent assault on a night out. After being rushed to hospital with life-threatening injuries, he was left with a scar and serious head injuries.
Funeral details for Alan are expected to be announced by his former clubs in due course.
READ NEXT:
Glasgow family hope to buy dad with terminal cancer dream car for final road trip
Fundraiser launched to help independent south side market in urgent need of repairs
Test your bravery at Glasgow’s ‘hottest’ challenge of the year in a fundraising firewalk
Glasgow charity launches fundraiser to protect historic Britannia Panopticon Music Hall
Glasgow charity launches emergency appeal to support victims of Pakistan floods
