Family man Derek ‘happiest when around family’

A MUCH loved Gloucester rugby legend Derek East has died.

- Kim HORTON

The hugely respected and doting family man shall be remembered for his lifelong love of rugby, and someone who was loved by all who met him.

Derek East, 80, from Gloucester, known as Ego to many, was diagnosed with bowel cancer on April 2 this year, and heartbreakingly, he passed away on Saturday, June 7.

While his family are still coming to terms with the loss of Mr East, they hold many treasured memories dear, of the born and bred Gloucester man whose family meant everything to him.

Mr East shall be remembered as someone who loved to play rugby, yet also coached youngsters in the sport.

He proudly played two seasons for Gloucester rugby and later went on to play for Tredworth.

Mr East grew up in Gloucester and went to Linden secondary school.

He met and married his wife Gill who passed away in 2015 and they went on to have three children, Jeff, 62, from Canada, Mandy, 57 and Simon, 53, who live in Gloucester.