Both the Muswellbrook Junior Rams and Aberdeen Tigers took to social media this week to pay their respects, as well as offer their condolences, to the 64-year-old’s family.

Born in Muswellbrook, on June 18, 1953, Mr Foot touched the lives of everyone he met.

He even had the support of the officials, according to Rod Bowd.

“From members of the referees' association and more personally, from myself, I pass on my sympathies to the Foot family,” he said.

“Footy was also a referee during his involvement in rugby league. 

“But, apart from all that, he was a gentleman.”

Another of the Tigers’ favourite sons, Mark Wilton, had nothing but praise for Mr Foot.

“Everyone loved him.

“And, I don’t think there was a day he didn’t go to the gym,” he added with a laugh.

“When I started coaching juniors, Ron was one of the first people I spoke to.

“His knowledge of the game was incredible.

“Plus, he was such a lovely bloke.

“He’d always call into my wife’s [Amanda] salon – and have a chat.

“That’s the type of guy he was.”

The Muswellbrook District Junior Rugby League Football Club posted on Facebook:

“The Muswellbrook District Junior Rams wish to extend their deepest condolences to Jaye and Kristal Foot and Boo N Addie Parker and their families on the sudden cardiac loss of their amazing dad Ron Foot. A proud former player, club secretary, dedicated committee member and reliable supporter.

“Rarely does a man come along so aptly named as ‘Footy’ that embraces the epitome of a staunch gentleman passionate about both his family, his friends and our beloved rugby league. Your cheeky smile, your infectious impact, that laugh and your unwavering enthusiasm will never be forgotten.”

Newly-appointed president Peter Fitzsimmons told the Aberdeen Rugby League Football Club, via Facebook: “It is with shock and sadness that I inform you that one of Aberdeen’s true legends, Ron Foot, passed away today suddenly. On behalf of Aberdeen rugby league, all of our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. Ron spent almost his entire life devoted to playing, training, coaching and mentoring young Tigers, and he will be missed by everyone who he has helped along the way. The Tiger community will give Ron the farewell he deserves for a lifetime of dedication to Aberdeen.”

Mr Foot is survived by his children, son Jaye Foot and daughter Addie Parker, to his wife Diane (dec), as well as seven grandchildren. 

His funeral service will take place at St Albans Church, Muswellbrook, on Thursday, January 18, at 10am.