THE family of a much-loved grandad who passed away say a minute's applause at St Mirren's next home game would "mean the world" to them.

Brian Rush was a lifelong Buddies fan and had been to nearly every home game during his life. 

The 81-year-old, who was still working and stayed in Johnstone, was described as a "gentle giant" who always loved going along to the SMiSA Stadium with his family.

Glasgow Times: Brian and his partner Madge Brian and his partner Madge (Image: Supplied)

Stacey Gordon, Brian's granddaughter, said he was always a "positive role model" in her life and was a "family man".

The 33-year-old said if they were to hold a minute's applause at the ground on the 20th minute this weekend, it would be a "really nice send-off" ahead of the funeral.

St Mirren will face Hearts in Paisley on Saturday, April 6.

Speaking about her grandad, who passed on Sunday, Stacey said: "He was always ridiculously rubbish at funny jokes.

"In my life, he was also a positive role model to me and was such a family man who never got cross with anyone.

"He was a big guy who was over six foot and he was such a gentle giant. 

"The legacy he has left is second to none.

"It would absolutely mean the world to me if we could arrange for [a minute's applause to happen].

"He was due to turn 82 on July 20, so that is why we picked number 20."

Brian was still working at the age of 81 at Thorn Athletic Sports Academy where he was described as a "valued employee".

He had been working at the sports facility for the last 10 years after previously working in bakers McMillan.

He was described as "irreplaceable" in a tribute to him by his recent employer.

Mark McGee, chairperson at Thorn Athletic, said: "Brian was the best signing we ever made and his loss is a real blow to us all.

"His reliability, dedication and commitment will never be matched but likewise never forgotten.

"On a personal level, he became a valued team member and close friend. He never failed to amaze me and I genuinely felt that he'd go on forever.

"Bringing up match report cuttings from the newspapers, endless cups of tea, chatting about the horses, football and the other stuff that kept us going as we worked away.

"Our thoughts are with everyone connected."

Brian's partner, Madge, will be making it to the game too despite not usually attending.

Stacey added: "He has stood there himself and clapped for so many people he has known that passed and I just think it would be brilliant to send him off like that.

"A lot of his family who don't go to the games will be making it along this weekend, so it has turned into a bigger family thing than usual.

"It would be really nice to give him that send-off at St Mirren Park."

Glasgow Times:

St Mirren legend Tony Fitzpatrick was a friend of Brian who said he had the "heart of a lion" and a minute's applause is the "least he deserves".

He said: "Brian was a wonderful man who brought up a great family.

"I had the pleasure and the privilege of meeting him through my playing, management and beyond. 

"He had the heart of a lion and was a special character.

"He will be sorely missed but I know that the St Mirren fans will get right behind the idea this weekend."