The 86-year-old co-chairman of WEST HAM has passed away.
After a brief illness, he passed away on Wednesday morning alongside his fiancee Lesley, daughters Jacqueline and Vanessa, and.
Gold, a lifelong supporter of the Hammers, and his longtime business partner David Sullivan acquired the team in 2010.
A thorough homage to Gold is being planned by the Hammers for the upcoming days.
In an emotional statement, Sullivan said: “On behalf of everyone at the football club, it is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that we mourn the passing of our colleague and friend, David Gold.
“Of all our joint ventures, none gave us more pride and happiness than the day we took ownership of West Ham United, our Club, in January 2010.
“David had a long-standing connection with the Hammers, having grown up opposite the Boleyn Ground in Green Street, and represented the Club at junior level.
“He always wanted what was best for West Ham United, and his passing is a great loss for all of us.”
Manager David Moyes – who was appointed by Gold on two separate occasions – added: “I am extremely sad to hear this news.
“On behalf of all of the players and my staff at the training ground, I would like to extend our deepest sympathies to David Gold’s family at this very difficult time.
“Mr Gold was a regular visitor to Rush Green and always a source of great support and encouragement to myself and the players.
“It was clear that he had a genuine and sincere love for the Club and was a true supporter at heart.
“He took a great interest in the people working behind-the-scenes and was always keen to help in any way he could. He will be greatly missed.”
Irons vice-chairman and close friend Karren Brady said: “To a great man, a great friend for over 30 years and a completed gentlemen.
“You will be missed. Rest in peace x.”
Gold, a lifelong supporter of West Ham, was raised at 442 Green Street, immediately across from the former Boleyn Ground, commonly known as Upton Park. Gold was born in Stepney in September 1936.
Between the ages of 13 to 16, he played for the club’s boys’ team as a talented young schoolboy player. He then made an appearance for the youth team.
Up until 2009, Gold also served as Birmingham City’s chairman.
Curtis Woodhouse, an ex-Blue, also gave his old owner a heartfelt tribute.
He wrote: “Really sad to hear the news about David Gold passing.