Tributes flood in after Nettleham Football Club manager dies.

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A devoted family man, a committed football manager and great mate.

This how the late Nettleham Football Club manager Richard Mason will be remembered following his untimely death.

Richard died unexpectedly on the evening of Sunday, December 27, of a heart attack at the age of 47.

His parents, Clive and Maureen, said they were “devastated” at his sudden death.

“We never thought we would have to go through this again,” said Mr Mason.

“We lost our oldest son, Robert, in similar circumstances two years ago.

“We feel so sorry for Richard’s family. He was very devoted to his wife, Yvette, his daughter, Charlotte, his three sons and three stepsons.

“They will miss him so very, very much – as will his sister Wendy and her family.”

Richard will be buried at Riseholme Church, alongside his brother.
His father added: “We are very proud of both our sons and very sad that this has happened to them – they will always be in out hearts and minds.”

The Mason family moved to Cherry Willingham in 1974, when Richard was 12. It was then he first got involved with Nettleham Football Club, playing for the under 13s’ team. His career with the club would go on to span four decades.

Richard held various jobs throughout his life, including roles in building and insurance.

However, his father said that work always came after his family and football.

He said: “His work always had to be arranged so that he could meet his family commitments – and, of course, his involvement with football.

“He particularly enjoyed his family holidays. His family are twinned with a family in Mulsanne in France, who are shocked to hear of Richard’s death.”

Russ Binnington, a friend of Mr Mason’s for over 20 years and an assistant to Lincoln United’s reserve team, said that his thoughts were with the family.

“Rick was a great mate and would do anything for anyone,” he said.

“All the players respected him and what he did. He did a lot for the players, a lot of which was out of his own pocket, which shows how committed he was to the club.

“We’ve been friends for years and met through football. We always worked together and we always had good times together.

“Nobody had a bad word to say about him. He was a top bloke and I feel sorry for the lads, Charlotte and Yvette.”