Party night will remember John

Family raise cash in dad’s memory

A Rutherglen family are holding a fundraising event in memory of their dad, who died of an aneurysm aged only 52.

John McDonald had previously suffered a stroke but in March the family were devastated when he had a fatal burst of a blood vessel in his brain.

Daughter Elizabeth, of Toryglen Road, said: “It was such a shock to us all – so unexpected.

“My dad was always so full of life, telling jokes and making people laugh.

“He was a fantastic man who was very well known in the community,” added the mum-of-one.

John started a youth club in Burnhill and was manager of Burnhill Boys’ Club football team for many years.

He was a carer to disabled people for three to four years before he suffered the stroke which curtailed his work.

Grandad John raised his family in Pinkerton Avenue, Burnhill.

As well as Elizabeth ( 29), he had two sons, John and Tony, and granddaugher Courtney.

“He was a proud Orangeman,” added Elizabeth. “Although he wasn’t a member of the Orange Order he was always involved in the 20 Club and everyone there has been really supportive of us.”

Now the family has decided to organise a fundraising event in his memory.

It will take place in the 20 Club on February 20,.

She said: “We are donating all money made from the event to Foster’s undertakers in Burnside.

“Hopefully, it can be used to provide flowers or cards or funeral cars to families who may be struggling a bit when they have to bury their loved ones unexpectedly.”

The event will have a DJ and star prize is a signed Rangers top which will go to the highest bidder.

There is a host of other raffle prizes including rugs, meal vouchers at top restuaurants and bottles of alcohol.

Tickets are on sale now, costing £5, from Elizabeth on 07516016965.

He was full of life, telling jokes and making people laugh