Staff Reporter.
@IANS.
Hellenic FC president and former professional footballer Mark Byrne has passed away, the club have confirmed.
Byrne was the son of former England and Crystal Palace footballer John ‘Budgie’ Byrne and was someone who contributed immensely to the local game, playing a role in the development of many young footballers, and current professionals.
The 59-year-old former footballer was at home with his family when he lost a long battle with cancer.
The family confirmed in a statement that the former Hellenic and Cape Town Spurs football passed away on Sunday.
“It is with heavy hearts that we at Hellenic Football Club announce the passing of Club President Mark Byrne,” the statement read.
“Mark fought a brave fight and we the Byrne family and club thank everyone for their prayers and messages.”
Hellenic will be closed in the coming week in memory of Byrne.
The club is also requesting the football fraternity to donate towards a Memorial Garden that will be planted at Hellenic Football Club.
Details of his funeral will be announced in the coming days.