The father of rugby legend Rob Burrow, Geoff, has died aged 74 following a ‘period of ill health’.
Rob’s former club, Leeds Rhinos, confirmed Geoff Burrow’s passing today, describing him as a ‘tireless campaigner for the motor neurone disease [MND] community’.
They said in a statement: ‘It is with deep sadness that the club has learned of the passing on Monday 30th March of Geoff Burrow, the father of Rob Burrow, after a period of ill health.
‘Leeds-born Geoff was a tireless campaigner for the MND community following Rob’s diagnosis in December 2019 and continued that work after Rob’s passing in June 2024.
‘A devoted husband, father and a grandfather, Geoff brought Rob to his first ever game at Headingley and started his love of the Rhinos.
‘Geoff was always a champion for those who did not have a voice throughout his career as a trade union representative.’
Rob passed away nearly two years ago, aged 41, from motor neurone disease, having bravely battled the disease for nearly five years.
After Rob’s diagnosis in 2019, Geoff, along with his family and Rob’s former teammate Kevin Sinfield, helped raise millions for MND charities.
Leeds Hospitals Charity have also expressed condolences adding that Geoff was ‘an incredible advocate for those living with MND’.
Rob Burrow’s father, Geoff, has died aged 74 following a tireless campaign for motor neurone disease
The Burrow family had campaigned to increase awareness of motor neurone disease
Rob’s final wish had been for construction to begin on a new £6million facility based in Leeds and designed to support the needs of people living with MND.
But his death was announced the day before a ceremony for the site, leaving his heartbroken father to dig the first hole – with Geoff later revealing the poignant moment had ‘meant everything’.
Tributes have begun flooding in, from rugby fans and clubs alike.
Hull KR said: ‘Everyone at Hull KR sends our best wishes to the Burrow family at this difficult time.’
Hull FC added: ‘The thoughts and condolences of everyone at Hull FC are with Geoff’s family and friends, and the entire Burrow family. RIP, Geoff.’
Wigan Warriors said: ‘Everyone at Wigan Warriors sends our love and support to the Burrow family at this difficult time.’
Bradford Bulls wrote: ‘Our thoughts and condolences are with Geoff’s family at this difficult time.’
Andrew Foster said: ‘Devastating news. Geoff was a hero. The care and time he had for Rycroft and Beau after all he had been through was incredible. What a legacy he has left for both rugby league and the MND community. RIP Geoff. You did Rob and your whole family proud.’
Andrew Ball added: ‘Such sad news, although didn’t know him, he came across as such a genuine person. Who carried himself and the family through a terrible time, and did a lot of great work for an important charity. RIP!’
Sheron Boyle said: ‘Oh my goodness. I spoke with lovely Geoff a couple of weeks ago as he was fighting for MND new medications for sufferers. His heart was broken by Rob’s death. I hope Irene, the girls and family take comfort that he is reunited with his beloved boy. RIP Geoff.’
Geoff and his wife Irene cared for their son two days a week after he was diagnosed with MND so that Rob’s wife Lindsey could continue her work as an NHS physiotherapist.
Geoff had previously spoken about how his son had passed away peacefully and ‘on his terms’ surrounded by his family at Pinderfields Hospital near his home in Yorkshire on June 2, 2024.
