Sheffield Wednesday and Sheffield United fans unite to pay tribute to dad who drowned on cruise

Paul Carder, who was a huge Owls supporter, founder of Don Valley Windows and stalwart of grassroots football, died after getting into difficulties while swimming in the sea off Costa Rica on January 16.

The 63-year-old father-of-three, who also had three grandchildren, was remembered on Saturday at Hillsborough, where he had been a season ticket holder, with a tribute included in the programme and flashed up on the big screen.

Paul, who grew up in Woodthorpe, Sheffield, but had lived for the last 20 years in Wickersley, Rotherham, worked as a joiner before establishing Don Valley Windows in 1991 and building it up into the successful business it is today.

He had recently handed the reins to his son Lewis, 25, and was enjoying his ‘semi-retirement’ when tragedy struck.

Those who knew Paul have paid tribute to the ‘true gentleman’ online.

On Facebook, Debs Smith wrote: “So so sad Paul you were a true gentleman.”

More than 190 people have expressed their grief on the Star’s Facebook page.

Lisa Ann Woods added: “ RIP from a blades family #sheffieldtogether.”

“Sad news, rest in peace from a Millwall fan,” wrote Alan Noles.

Richard Mac McGowan added: “Sending condolences from a Rotherham fan.”

Carole Dingley wrote: “RIP Paul thoughts to the family at this sad time”, and Lyndsey Howell said: “Thoughts are with the family at such a terribly sad time.”