Courtney Meppen-Walter's Family Mourns 'Truly Special Soul' Amidst Funeral Fundraiser

The family of footballer Courtney Meppen-Walter have paid tribute to a "truly special soul" following his death at the age of 32. His current club, Bury, announced his passing on Tuesday, with no immediate details released regarding the circumstances.

Meppen-Walter, who captained England's Under-18 side during his youth career, had a playing career that included spells at numerous clubs such as Ashton United, Stockport County, Chorley, and Nantwich Town, before joining Bury.

On Wednesday evening, his family released a statement honoring his memory and launched a GoFundMe page to assist with funeral expenses. "Courtney was an unforgettable Dad, partner, son, brother, friend, and an unforgettable player," the statement read. "He was someone who made an impression on everyone he met, and his absence will be felt by so many people who had the privilege of knowing and loving him."

The family described him as "a truly special soul" who "could bring light into every room he walked into." They highlighted his personality, humor, and ability to make people feel comfortable. A candlelit vigil was held for Meppen-Walter on Tuesday night, where friends and family released balloons and fireworks in his honor.

Meppen-Walter became a father for the third time in July. His past included a 16-month prison sentence in 2013 for causing the death of two people by careless driving. Kulwant Singh, 32, and his sister Ravel Kaur, 37, died at the scene following a high-speed crash in Manchester. Meppen-Walter was released after serving half of his sentence and subsequently joined Carlisle United.

In 2019, while playing for Chorley, Meppen-Walter received a 22-month driving ban after being caught driving under the influence of alcohol. He was found to be more than twice the legal limit when stopped by police in Manchester city center. At the time, he was ordered to serve a 12-month community order and complete 80 hours of unpaid work. He had expressed remorse in court, stating, "I will probably get called every name under the sun and I deserve it. I'm just embarrassed."

Meppen-Walter was released by Bury in the summer of 2025, following a loan spell at Stalybridge Celtic.