We have sad news coming out of Spotland today as former Chairman David Kilpatrick has passed away aged 78.

‘Killie’ will undoubtedly go down as one of the most important people in the history of Rochdale AFC having served as the chairman for 27 years and been involved as a director for over 40 years and even having a big and positive influence in the recent off-field issues at the club.

It has been well documented that as one of the “Overcoat Men”, David Kilpatrick took control of a mess and turned it into a truly wonderful football club. It’s not an exaggeration to say that without him, we probably wouldn’t have a football club now.

Known for his straight talking and no-nonsense persona, I myself had been on the receiving end of a telling off from Mr Kilpatrick when he wanted to know how on Earth I knew that Dave Bayliss was leaving to join Luton Town before he did!

Rest in peace Mr Chairman.

Photo: Action Images

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