England Lacrosse can announce that the funeral of experienced former official, Rodney Burns, will take place at 3pm this Friday (17th January) at Manchester Crematorium Old Chapel.
Rodney, who played for South Manchester and Wythenshawe before turning his hand to officiating, passed away on 8 January.
He dedicated his whole life to lacrosse and became a highly successful national and international referee, officiating some of the biggest games both home and abroad.
On the day of his death, fellow veteran official, Phil Pearson, released this statement:
“The game of lacrosse has today lost one of its shining lights and someone who I will always be grateful for his help.
“It is with great shock and sadness that we have today been advised that Rodney Burns has died In Manchester, England.
“Rodney, as most of you know, was a former player of tenacious and gifted ability for South Manchester and Wythenshawe in Manchester.
“After a very successful playing career, Rodney became a highly successful national and international referee, refereeing the biggest games both home and abroad.
“To me and countless others he was a fantastic mentor, coach, assessor and, not the least, a great friend.
“He would always support others in helping them achieve new heights in lacrosse.
“He was chosen as Referee-in-Chief (RIC) for the 2012 Men’s U19 World Championship. and the RIC and deputy RIC for many European and World championships.
“His humour, honesty and fairness can never be understated.
“The greater lacrosse family offers our deepest and sincere condolences to his wife Frances and all his children and grand-children”.
Anybody who would like to pay their respects is welcome to attend Didsbury Cricket Club/Manchester Old Waconians Lacrosse Club after the service.
The family have requested no flowers but are accepting donations for Marie Curie, the British Heart Foundation and the Teenage Cancer Trust.
England Lacrosse would also like to offer our condolences to Rodney’s family and thank him for the years of service he gave to the game we all love.