Family and friends honour much-loved Bolton dad and Wanderers fan

Jake Rothwell, 36, who was a well-known member of the community and a huge Bolton Wanderers fan, died suddenly on April 1.

On Saturday afternoon, his loved ones gathered at Farnworth Cricket Club to bid farewell to a man who was “a friend to so many”.

White and blue balloons, the colours of Bolton Wanderers, were released in tribute.

As if by fate, the rain held off as they floated high into the sky, and blue flares were set off.

Friends and family gathered, moments before the balloons were released (Image: NQ)

Jake is remembered by his children, Theo and Lucia, his partner Beccy Wheeler, his mother Gaynor Rothwell, his siblings Katie and Jordan Rothwell, and many others.

Jake’s partner, Beccy, told The Bolton News: “Jake and I got together three years ago.

“We were best friends from the start and quickly fell in love; we were inseparable.

“He really was the other half of me.

“We both loved to sing and dance, and loved Bolton Wanderers.

“I had the best three years of my life with him.

Jake and Beccy (Image: Supplied)

“Losing my best friend and love, when he was so young, has been the most devastating thing that could have happened.

“However, the love and support he has been shown by everyone during this hard time is truly heartwarming.

“He will be forever in my heart and always missed and loved.”

Jake’s sister, Katie, also shared a moving tribute on behalf of his family: “Jake was amazing.

“He was the best big brother to me and my brother Jordan, and the best dad to his kids, Theo and Lucia.

“He was also the best uncle to Mason and Reya, and was a loving, doting son to our mum, Gaynor.

“He could make anyone laugh, and today shows how much he was loved and adored.”

Gaynor added that it was “humbling to see so many people there, even people that have only crossed paths with him”.

“That’s how much of an effect he had on people,” she said.

“He was a friend to so many.”

Dozens paid tribute to Jake (Image: NQ)

To honour a “fallen Wanderer”, Jake’s best friend, Luke Robinson, invited fans to join in applause during the 36th minute of Bolton Wanderers’ home game against Stockport County on April 6.

At the match, rapturous applause filled the stadium as supporters clapped in the April sunshine for Jake.

A GoFundMe page to help the family give Jake “the send-off he deserves” has already raised nearly £6,000.

Attendees at the memorial also took part in a Grand National sweepstake and football card games, with all proceeds going to the GoFundMe.

Donations can be made at: https://gofund.me/5b2f8d805