A British football coach has died suddenly while on holiday with friends at just 37 – leaving behind his heartbroken fiancée and two young sons.
Warren Coard, from Co Antrim, Northern Ireland, passed away while on a trip in Tenerife with a large group of friends.
The dad-of-two was a former goalkeeper and coach for several clubs and was remembered as a much-loved character who could light up any room.
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A fundraiser has been launched to help his fiancée Olivia Greer cover medical costs and funeral expenses, as reported by Need To Know.
It said: “It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the devastating news of the sudden loss of Warren Coard, who sadly passed away in Tenerife while away on a trip with his friends.
“At just 37 years old, Warren was taken from us far too soon, leaving behind a heartbroken family, friends and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
“Warren was the life and soul of every gathering.
“He had a personality that could light up a room, bring people together and make everyone around him smile. He was the kind of person who made memories wherever he went, and his presence, laughter and infectious spirit will never be forgotten.”
The appeal paid tribute to Warren’s fiancée, his sons Charlie and Levi, his mum Carol and his wider family.
It added: “No family should ever have to experience such heartbreak, especially so suddenly and at such a young age.
“At this incredibly difficult time, Warren’s loved ones are facing the unexpected financial burden of funeral costs.
“This has placed additional pressure on his family during an already devastating time, when they should be able to focus on grieving, supporting one another and remembering Warren for the amazing person he was.”
Football clubs Warren played for also paid tribute to the former goalkeeper and coach.
A spokesperson for Barn United Football Club in Carrickfergus said: “Everyone at the club is devastated to hear of the untimely passing of our former goalkeeper coach, Warren Coard aka Coardy.
“Our thoughts are with the entire family circle at this difficult time. Rest easy Coardy.”
Islandmagee Football Club said: “The club are saddened to hear of the passing of our former goalkeeper, goalkeeping coach and long term supporter Warren Coard.
“Everyone at the clubs thoughts are with ‘Coardys’ family and friends at this awful time.”
The fundraiser appealed for donations to help ease the financial pressure on Warren’s loved ones as they prepare to say their final goodbyes.
It said: “Warren was loved by so many, and the number of lives he touched is a testament to the person he was.
“At only 37, he had so much more life to live, so many more memories to make and so much more love to give.
“Fly high, Warren.
“You were taken far too soon, but you will never be forgotten.
“Forever loved, forever missed, and always in our hearts.”
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