Tributes to key figure behind scenes at Stenhousemuir

Stenhousemuir football club is moruning the passing of Billy Kilpatrick, husband of Ochilview general manager Margaret.
Sad news from Stenhousemuir at the weekend. Picture: Gary Hutchison.Sad news from Stenhousemuir at the weekend. Picture: Gary Hutchison.
Sad news from Stenhousemuir at the weekend. Picture: Gary Hutchison.

Mr Kilpatrick died at the weekend after being admitted to Forth Valley Royal hospital with COVID-19 symptoms.

A key support to the club stalwart Margaret, and supporter of the club, the news prompted an outpouring of grief from the club and the wider football community.

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Chairman Iain McMenemy said: “I am absolutely devastated to have to inform everyone of the sad passing of Billy Kilpatrick.

The club is rallying around Margaret (right) and offering support. Picture: Michael Gillen.The club is rallying around Margaret (right) and offering support. Picture: Michael Gillen.
The club is rallying around Margaret (right) and offering support. Picture: Michael Gillen.

“Margaret Kilpatrick, as our General Manager, has been a key part of Stenhousemuir Football Club for many years, and her husband Billy was a well known figure around the club and a great source of support to Margaret in her role.

“Billy contracted the Coronavirus and had been battling the illness in ICU for the past week. He sadly passed away in the early hours of Sunday morning.

“Despite her own personal circumstances and the difficulties that she faced during this past week, Margaret continued to support the Club’s Community Help Initiative by providing voluntary admin support. This is a testament to her character, and her willingness to help others. But now is the time for all of us to offer her our support as she comes to terms with her loss.

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“All our thoughts are with Margaret, and the family, many of whom have a number of different roles around the club. Speaking with Margaret this morning, she asked me to stress to everyone, that this virus is real, it is in our community, and it can affect anyone.

“We have lost a Warrior, one of our own.”

Club CEO Jamie Swinney wrote: “Heartbroken for Margaret, Denise and the family. Billy was a lovely man from a really good family. This virus is very dangerous, please follow the advice and help reduce the number of people who have to suffer such a tragedy. Stay at home.”

Falkirk FC sent a message of condolence: “Our sincere condolences to Margaret, her family and everyone at the club at this time. Our thoughts are with you all.”

Former captain Ross McMillan wrote: “Such sad news. Condolences with Margaret and her family. RIP.”

And Ross McNeil added: “Thoughts go out to Margaret. Was brilliant with me at my time. A true gem.”