Geoff Burrow: Leeds Rhinos pay tribute following death of Rob Burrow's father and 'tireless' MND campaigner
Geoff Burrow, the father of Leeds Rhinos legend Rob and a “tireless” campaigner for the motor neurone disease community, has died.
Rugby league icon Rob died in June 2024, aged 41, having been diagnosed with MND in 2019.
His family have campaigned relentlessly for increased MND awareness, as well as greater funding and care for those who are diagnosed.
Geoff was among those at the forefront of campaigning and was present last year when a state-of-the-art MND centre opened at Seacroft Hospital in Leeds.
Leeds Rhinos have confirmed he has died following a period of ill health.
Leeds Rhinos pay tribute
A statement issued by the club read: “It is with deep sadness that the club has learned of the passing on Monday, March 30 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.
“The club would like to pass on our deepest condolences to Geoff’s wife Irene and the Burrow family at this sad time. We would like to ask that the family are given privacy at this time. May he rest in peace.”