Tributes to man who was ‘heart and soul’ of Latics
TRIBUTES have been paid to an Oldham Athletic ‘legend’ who has died aged 63.
Gordon Lawton, described as the ‘heart and soul’ of the club, worked there for more than 30 years in a number of different roles.
He first joined in 1986 when he set up a lottery in the commercial department.
Gordon, known as Gordy, went on to do a number of other jobs, including programme editor, club commentator and media manager and was a well-known face among players and fans at Oldham’s ground, Boundary Park.
Gordon spent an incredible 23 years providing commentary for Latics, becoming known as ‘the voice of Oldham Athletic,’ but recently moved on from that role in order to become football secretary for the club.
A club statement read: “Oldham Athletic are saddened to report that club legend Gordon Lawton has passed away aged 63.
“Everybody at the club would like to send their deepest condolences to his family, friends and everyone who he has touched whilst being the heart and soul of Oldham Athletic.
“He will be for ever remembered by everyone at the club as a legend – one in a million and the heart and soul of Oldham Athletic. “Rest in peace, Gordy.” His death has shocked many, with former Oldham Athletic manager Lee Johnson tweeting: “Such a shame, a fantastic guy.
“My deepest sympathies go out to Gordon’s family and all at OAFC that knew and loved him.”
Ex-Oldham forward Dominic Poleon added: “Terrible news. Gordon was such a lovely man. RIP and my condolences to his family.
“Was just laughing and joking with him on the last game.”
Former M.E.N. reporter Mike Keegan, who covered the club during his time at the paper and who knew him well, said: “Despite his Rochdale roots, Gordy was Oldham Athletic and the club will not be the same without him.
“Larger than life, witty and generous, the news is heartbreaking.
“He often spoke of his pending retirement and the fact he won’t get to enjoy that is incredibly sad.
“The word ‘legend’ is overused in football, but Gordy was exactly that. “Rest in peace, big man.” Scores of tributes have also flooded in for Gordon from stunned fans on social media.
Luke Marsden said on Twitter: “What a man big Gordy was. He absolutely was Mr Latics, an irreplaceable loss for the club and the world. RIP Gordon. #oafc.”
Whilst Ian Reddish said: “One of the nicest blokes you will ever have the pleasure to meet. RIP Gordy.”