Long-serving Bolton chairman Phil Gartside has died of cancer at the age of 63.
On the Wanderers board since 1988, he served as club chairman from 1999 until stepping away from his duties in November due to illness.
Bolton said in a statement on their website: "Bolton Wanderers Football Club is deeply saddened to announce that long-standing club chairman Phil Gartside has died aged 63.
"Phil has passed away after a short and brave battle with cancer."
Bolton vice-chairman Brett Warburton said: "Phil has been a personal friend for over 30 years and this is a very sad day for everybody associated with Bolton Wanderers.
"On behalf of Eddie Davies, the board and everyone associated with the club we send our deepest condolences to all Phil's family and ask that their privacy is respected during what is a difficult time for all involved."
Bolton said in their statement that Gartside's funeral will be a private service, in line with his family's wishes.
A number of Wanderers players past and present took to social media after the announcement to pay their respects.
Bolton midfielder Josh Vela tweeted: "Rip Phil gartside thoughts and prayers go out to his family #bwfc".
Team-mate Neil Danns posted a similar message - "Rip Phil gartside prayers go out to his family" - as did Craig Davies.
"Sad to hear about Phil Gartside was always a top bloke with me," the forward said. "My thoughts are with his family".
Former Trotters player and manager Owen Coyle, now head coach of Houston Dynamo, told Sky Sports News: "I had a lot of time for him, he was a very family-orientated man, a grandfather, it's very sad.
"For me he worked very hard, wanted the best for the club and was always very good to myself and my family."
The Football Association released a statement expressing its sadness at Gartside's passing.
The Bolton chairman served on the FA Board and FA Council between 2004 and 2012, as well as being a non-executive director of Wembley Stadium until last July.
FA chairman Greg Dyke said: "On behalf of The FA, I am saddened to hear of this news.
"Phil had a lifelong association with Bolton Wanderers and did much to help the club achieve success upon becoming chairman in 1999.
"As well as leading Bolton during an extended stay in the Premier League over several seasons, he joined The FA Board in 2004 and was as dedicated to this role as he was to his club before stepping down in 2012.
"Our thoughts are with his family and friends today."
Bolton were promoted to the Premier League via the play-offs under Gartside's reign and would go on to seal four consecutive top-eight finishes in the Premier League.
Wanderers also had two UEFA Cup campaigns before relegation in 2012, with the club currently 23rd in the Championship and seeking new investors.
The club were spared liquidation on January 18 by the High Court and granted a five-week extension at a winding-up hearing brought about by a debt of £2.2million to HM Revenue and Customs.
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