'All Villa fans come together': Minute's applause to be held during game against Sunderland for super fan and 'cracking bloke' who died suddenly
A minute's applause will be held during Aston Villa's game against Sunderland on April 19 to honour a Villa super fan who died suddenly.
Aston Villa supporter Gary (Gaz) Rouse, from Sutton Coldfield, passed away suddenly on March 7.
The 64-year-old's family have now organised a minute's silence to honour him during Villa's home game against Sunderland on April 19.
The applause will be held during the 64th minute.
Mr Rouse's daughter Becky shared details of the minute's applause on Facebook, calling on "all Villa fans" to "come together".
She added: "Share this to as many people and pages as we can for my dad please."
Hundreds posted their condolences in response, and some who had met Mr Rouse shared their memories of him.
One user said: "So sad. Worked with Gaz late '90s, early '00s. Genuine bloke. Loved our footie chats. He used to have me in stitches.
"Top bloke. RIP Mate."
Another user commented: "Ahh no! Gaz was my footie manager years ago for Crescent/The Pint Pot.
"Cracking bloke, great laugh. RIP Gaz."
The team at the Gate pub in Sutton Coldfield, which Mr Rouse regularly visited, shared their own tribute on Facebook.
The post read: "We are shocked and heartbroken to hear of the passing of our dear friend Gary. Whether it was watching the footie, enjoying the bands, a Sunday night drink with his best friends or even singing on the karaoke!
"Gary always lit up the room with his smile and laughter. Thinking of all of Gary’s family and friends at this difficult time."
