Liverpool have paid tribute to one of the founding members of a supporters' union set up in the fight against Tom Hicks and George Gillett.
Paul Rice was a key figure in helping co-found the Spirit of Shankly (SOS), which started initially as fan-based resistance to the Reds' former owners at the beginning of 2008.
As part of his role in the group, he was also an integral figure in the pioneering of a revolutionary Football Quarter which has been proposed for the North Liverpool area.
The concept would celebrate Merseyside football by incorporating educational and leisure facilities in multi-purpose encompassing both Anfield and Goodison Park's stadiums.
"It is with deep regret and sadness that the Spirit of Shankly have to announce that one of the founders and vice president of the union, Paul Rice, passed away peacefully in his sleep at the Marie Curie hospice at 11am this morning," read a Spirit of Shankly statement.
"Paul was an inspiration to all who met him and was a dedicated and passionate member of the organisation, always giving leadership and advice.
"Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this very sad time."
Several members of SOS also paid their own individual tributes to Mr Rice.
James McKenna, the group's spokesman, said: "LFC, SOS, this city, myself and many others owe Paul an awful lot. I will never forget his advice, guidance and support."
Community Liaison and Regeneration Officer Paul Gardner added: "I learnt a lot from Paul Rice. Learnt things that will stay with me forever. To know him and work with him with SOS was a great honour."
In addition to his work with SOS, Mr Rice was also chief executive of the Liverpool Commercial District Partnership and was a member of Liverpool FC's Supporters' Committee.
Ian Ayre, the club's managing director, said: "I was fortunate to have known Paul personally and he was a true fan, and also an excellent businessman.
"Paul was a leading figure in the representations between the club and the fans in our ownership issues some time back and I had huge respect for the way he conducted himself in my dealings with him. He will be sadly missed."
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tony conroy, liverpool around 4 months ago