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'Irreplaceable' Manchester sporting leader dies at 41 after heart attack
More than 700 at the funeral of Andrew Cohen
December 5, 2017 12:45
More than 700 at the funeral of Andrew Cohen
December 5, 2017 12:45Tributes have been paid to South Manchester Sports stalwart Andrew Cohen, who died after suffering a heart attack while jogging.
The 41-year-old fulfilled a host of volunteer roles off the pitch during a 20-year association.
More than 700 people attended his funeral on Sunday with former players travelling from London to pay their respects.
The father-of-two was rushed to Wythenshawe Hospital last Thursday but passed away at the weekend with his family at his bedside.
Club chairman Jonathan Davis said he was numb with grief. “Andrew was irreplaceable. He was our accountant, treasurer and even ran his son’s juniors team. He loved what he did and we loved him.
“He didn't realise how good he was. To say he will leave a massive hole is an understatement. We are all devastated."
He added: “He has a lovely family - his wife Hannah and two young children, a boy and a girl. Everyone in the community will rally around them.”
Mr Davis recalled how Mr Cohen had been pivotal in raising funds for the building of the club’s new sports centre in Stockport.
“We needed to raise £1.5million but were £30,000 short. Andy said he would speak to Stockport Council and ask them to pay the remaining funds, interest free.
“We laughed at him but 49 hours after his meeting they agreed to it."
All games involving South Manchester Sports were called off as a mark of respect.
In a statement, Manchester Jewish Soccer League expressed sympathy with Mr Cohen's family and friends.
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