To be honest I write my blog for myself and if anyone takes time out of their busy schedules to read it then that is a big bonus and I thank you for it.
I hope some people take the time to read this one as it has a sentimental value for me.
Bobby Armstrong passed away on 2nd February 2011 at Scarborough General Hospital Toronto at 78 years of age. Now this may not mean much to anyone reading this blog but he was my Great Uncle Bobby!
Although his years far surpassed mine I looked up to him all my life and that was mainly down to him firstly being and absolute gentleman and secondly for being an outstanding sportsman during his younger years.
‘Uncle Bobby’ was my Nannies brother and he emigrated to Canada in the 1960’s but before that he had left his legacy in Irish League football for all to see. Bobby played for Glenavon FC and he was very proud to wear the Royal Blue Jersey and in fact he made 389 appearances for the Lurgan Blues.
He had many accolades during his successful career and Mournview Park but most notable where, 2 Irish League winners medals, 3 Irish Cup winners medals and he was a big part of the famous double-winning team of the 1956/57 season.
When he immigrated to Canada he continued with his football (or soccer as he became to know it) career and enjoyed the game for what it was and throughout his career he met many great friends.
Last time Bobby was home before he fell ill was in 2002 and I had the pleasure of taking him around Belfast and we both enjoyed plenty of pints of Guinness! I loved hearing the stories about football, his time in Canada and most off all how he loved his family and that is a testament to the man he was, loved talking about all his experiences and of that there where many – Legend!
In May my Aunt Rita (Bobby’s wife), cousin Russ (Bobby’s son) and his girlfriend Nancy made the trip over the Atlantic, first off all to see all the family but secondly to complete one of my Uncle Bobby’s dying wishes – to scatter some of his ashes on Mournview Park.
I had a great time catching up with Aunt Rita and of course Russ and Nancy who I hadn’t seen in over 20 years. We enjoyed reminiscing about ‘Uncle Bobby’ over a few nice bottles of red!
That takes me on to the wonderful day they had at Glenavon Football club on Wednesday 25th May. I must say that Glenavon Football Club handled the whole situation with complete professionalism and the day my family had was outstanding and will forever be etched in their memories, so a special thank to the ‘Lurgan Blues’ from me.
When they arrived at Mournview Park they were firstly shocked as a large group had made it for ‘Uncle Bobby’s’ send off and this really did touch their hearts. There where fans and ex-teammates of Bobby’s and they all loved sharing their memories of this great man.
The club itself displayed the silverware that Bobby played a big part in delivering to the Mournview Park Trophy cabinet. They laid on food and refreshments and it was a superb welcoming and brilliant memories for the family to take away with them.
Uncle Bobby met many great people through his life, most of these where through his sporting experiences and achievements. Through sport we meet some great people and some of these go on to be lifelong friends.
‘I have included some photos of the day at Mournview Park’
RIP Uncle Bobby (A True Legend)
