HIBS have announced the devastating news that owner and chairman Ron Gordon has died at the age of 68.
Gordon, the Easter Road club’s majority shareholder, had been undergoing treatment for cancer.
It was just earlier this month that Gordon announced to fans in an open letter that he had been battling the illness.
Gordon, who was based in America, had addressed supporters having been unable to attend a match in Edinburgh for a while.
He had said: “Some of you may have noticed that I have not been at Easter Road in some time.
“For most of this past year I have been receiving treatment for cancer.
“It has been a difficult time for me and the family, but I’m blessed to have their love and support as we navigate through the challenge.
“I imagine many of you will have gone through similar times in your own families.
“We all stick together to get through these difficult times.”
Gordon had hoped to be able to return to Easter Road again once his treatment allowed him to do so.
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But sadly, Hibs confirmed the sad news that he had passed away this morning.
Chief executive Ben Kensell 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.”
Gordon took control of Hibs back in the summer of 2019.
Born in Peru, he was a tycoon in the US media industry and he was proud of his Scottish heritage.
Hibs’ statement says that the Gordon family are “determined” to see through his vision for the club.
Tributes have been pouring in since the news was confirmed.
SPFL Chief Executive Neil Doncaster said: “Everyone at the SPFL is shocked at this devastating news. Ron was one of the most decent, hard-working, straightforward and enthusiastic figures in our game.
“It was clear that Hibs very quickly became far, far more than a business venture for Ron – his obvious pride in being its custodian and his unstinting dedication to the club were the clearest evidence of how much he loved being involved in Hibernian FC.
“In only a few years, he benefitted Scottish football more widely as he gave selflessly of his time and his very considerable array of talents. On a personal level, the superb work he did to help drive forward the SPFL Strategy Review was of enormous benefit.
“He will be very sadly missed across the entire game.”
Other clubs also passed on their condolences, with a host of Premiership rivals sending a message.
Edinburgh rivals Hearts posted: “The thoughts of everyone at Heart of Midlothian are with Ron’s family, friends and colleagues across the city at this desperately sad time.”
Celtic paid tribute, saying: “Everyone at Celtic Football Club would like to share our sincere condolences. The thoughts and prayers of everyone at the Club are with Ron’s family, friends and everyone at Hibernian FC at this extremely sad time. RIP, Ron.”
Rangers said: “Rangers Football Club is deeply saddened to hear the news of the untimely death of Hibernian Executive Chairman, Ronald J Gordon. We offer our deepest condolences to Ronald’s family, loved-ones and all at Hibernian FC this difficult time.”
Aberdeen chairman Dave Cormack offered a heartfelt tribute, saying: “Devastated to hear of Ron Gordon’s passing. Ron cared about our game. His drive, creativity & personal investment to make the Scottish game better was laudable. His enthusiasm was infectious. One of the good guys. Taken too early. I’ll miss you my friend… RIP”
St Mirren replied: “The thoughts of all at St Mirren are with Ron’s loved ones at this difficult time. Rest in peace, Ron.”
Hibs fans, too, reacted in shock to the sad news with an outpouring of tributes for the chairman.
One said: “RIP Ron, an absolute gentleman.”
Another said: “Just awful. Thoughts with family, staff and supporters.”
A third added: “Really sad news, thoughts to out to Ron’s family and a massive thank you for everything you’ve done in the best interests of Hibernian. Once a Hibee, always a Hibee.”
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Another Hibs fan said: “Deeply saddened by the news of Ron’s passing. Thoughts are with all his family and friends at a difficult time. Rest easy Ron – thank you.”
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