Home » Football

Courtney Meppen-Walter’s family pay tribute to ‘truly special soul’ following footballer’s death aged 32 – as fundraiser is launched to cover funeral costs

On Wednesday night, his family paid tribute to the 32-year-old - who had become a father for a third time in July - while launching a GoFundMe page.

By JAMES TOZER · Daily Mail

Published: Thursday, 1 October 2026 at 9:08 AM

Key Things to Know

The family of footballer Courtney Meppen-Walter paid tribute following his sudden death at age 32.
Fundraisers were launched to cover funeral costs and support his partner and three children.
Meppen-Walter passed away on September 28, with his death referred to the local coroner.

The Story in 60 Seconds

The family of Courtney Meppen-Walter have paid tribute to the former England Under-18 captain following his sudden death at the age of 32. His passing on September 28 was announced by Bury, though no cause of death has been confirmed and the matter has been referred to the coroner. Family and friends organized a candlelight vigil and launched online fundraisers to assist with funeral costs and to support his partner and three young children.

A former Manchester City youth player, Meppen-Walter went on to represent Carlisle United, Chorley, and several non-league clubs during his career. In 2013, he served a 16-month prison sentence after causing the death of two people by careless driving, leading to his release from Manchester City.

Read the full article on Daily Mail