A tragic incident has unfolded in Tameside, where a family has been struck by a devastating double loss as both a father and son passed away within days of each other. The family is reeling from the sudden deaths of Justin Chappell, aged 28, and his father Alan Chappell, aged 72. Justin sadly lost his life on Friday, March 14, after experiencing a fatal seizure in the bathroom of his home. Only four days later, Alan was found unconscious at the same residence. Concerned relatives, unable to reach him, had to break into the house, where they discovered Alan unresponsive in bed. He was rushed to Tameside General Hospital for treatment for a brain bleed and later transferred to Salford Royal, but tragically, he did not regain consciousness and passed away on March 23, just a week after Justin’s untimely death. The heartbreaking loss has left the family shattered as they come to terms with the sudden departure of two beloved members.
Both Alan and Justin shared a deep passion for Manchester City, a bond that will be commemorated with a touching joint tribute by fellow fans of the football club. Alan, a former paratrooper in the third battalion parachute regiment, was known for his dedication to following Manchester City across the globe alongside his son. Described as “inseparable” by those who knew them well, Alan leaves behind his daughters, Rachel, Jenna, and Alex, his son Martin, and is remembered fondly as a cherished grandfather and great-grandfather. Kelly Lomas, Alan’s daughter-in-law, expressed the immeasurable sorrow the family is experiencing, emphasising the difficulty of losing two generations within a week. She shared, “Now we’re planning two funerals. It’s been really hard for anyone to grieve. The only comfort we can take is that they are back together.”
Manchester City supporters have been urged to participate in a two-minute applause at the upcoming game against Crystal Palace as a tribute to Justin and Alan. The gesture will entail clapping in the 28th minute for Justin and the 72nd minute for Alan, symbolising their connection to the club and each other. Kelly acknowledged the outpouring of support from the football community and expressed gratitude towards the hospital teams, paramedics, and everyone offering kind words during this challenging period. She reflected on the profound impact of the loss, underscoring the void left by Alan’s and Justin’s absence. The family finds solace in the belief that their father and son are together, possibly enjoying a football match or embarking on a new adventure side by side.
In times of grief, gestures of solidarity and remembrance play a significant role in comforting those who are mourning. The family’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring bonds that tie loved ones together. As the community rallies around the Chappell family during this difficult period, their resilience and strength in the face of unimaginable loss stand as a testament to the power of love and unity. The upcoming tribute at the Etihad Stadium will not only honour the memories of Justin and Alan but also serve as a symbol of solidarity and support for their grieving family. The legacy of a father and son who shared a profound love for each other and their favourite football club will endure through the memories they created and the lives they touched.