The friends and family of a north-east man who died aged just 32 watched on as Dons fans paid him an emotional tribute at his beloved Pittodrie at the weekend.
Banners and flags were displayed by home supporters at Pittodrie in memory of Ellon man Kevin Bartlet on Saturday during Aberdeen FC’s Premiership clash with St Johnstone.
Ellon Academy IT technician Mr Bartlet was found dead at Tyrie, near Fraserburgh, on Tuesday, September 15 after vanishing from his home.
The beloved football coach – who was the president of the Aberdeenshire Secondary Schools Football Association – was laid to rest at Ellon Parish Church last Friday and mourners were requested to wear red tops and ties.
As the players took to the pitch, Dons supporters got to their feet and paid tribute to the die hard Reds fan whilst a group of pals near his regular seat in the Richard Donald Stand paraded flags of red, silver and white.
A banner was also displayed which read: “AFC born and bred. Always a red. RIP big Kev.”
James Bruce, organiser of the event, said it had been “an emotional day for all involved”.
He added: “The reception from both sets of fans was brilliant, especially that of the fellow Aberdeen fans. It was great everyone coming together to give Kevin the send off he deserved.
“I was made aware that some of Kevin’s colleagues were in the family stand and that some of his family were in the main stand and I hope they enjoyed seeing the display.”
Kevin Bartlet was forced to stop playing football as a teenager due to a benign tumour on his spine, but his love of the game led him to become a coach of Ellon Meadows FC.
Mr Bruce said his pal was an “Aberdeen fanatic”, adding: “He was a regular in a box in the Richard Donald Stand so got the opportunity to meet the players on a regular basis.
“He was an extremely dedicated gentleman, his life revolved around football as far as I’m aware.”
