Tribute paid to former Wrexham goalkeeper, Dave Gaskell

The Wrexham community is mourning the loss of the former Manchester United and Wrexham goalkeeper, who passed away today (January 24) at the age of 84, following a short battle with illness.

Dave was a devoted husband to Barbara, proud father to Michelle, Lesley and Nicola and a loving grandfather to Joel, Emily, Eleanor, Ted, and Edith.

Following his sad passing, Dave's family have paid a heartfelt tribute to him, who "was not only a footballing great but also an upstanding citizen and a cherished friend to many."

His family said: "Born in Wigan, Dave’s name will forever be etched in football history as the youngest ever player to don the famous red jersey of Manchester United.

"He made his senior debut for the club on 24th October 1956 in the 1956 FA Charity Shield, at the age of 16 years and 19 days, making him the youngest player ever to represent United.

Dave Gaskell. "As one of the last remaining Busby Babes, he carried the legacy of that golden generation with immense pride, always taking the time to share stories and memories with fans who wrote to him from all over the world. Despite receiving fan mail several times a week, he personally replied to each letter and signed photographs with warmth and gratitude.

"In 2023, Dave was finally recognized for his contributions to Manchester United's success when the club awarded him two championship-winning medals—more than half a century after they were won. Gaskell was one of 18 former United players eligible to receive missing medals after the English Football League (EFL) lowered its criteria from a minimum of 14 appearances to five. The long-overdue recognition was a proud moment for Dave, who remained humble about his achievements throughout his life.

"In the 1970s, Dave’s football journey took him and his family overseas, where he shared his passion for the game by coaching in both South Africa and Kuwait. His love for the sport and commitment to developing young talent knew no bounds, and his time abroad left a lasting impact on the communities he worked with.

Dave Gaskell. (Image: Manchester United.)

"Dave made Wrexham his home in the late 1970s when he joined Wrexham AFC, where he continued to display his remarkable goalkeeping talents. Beyond football, his love for sport extended to playing for Wrexham Rugby Club and Marchwiel Cricket Club, where he formed countless lifelong friendships. An all-round sportsman and a true team player, Dave was admired not only for his athleticism but for his camaraderie and sportsmanship.

"A man of great integrity and courage, Dave was honoured with a Bravery and Courage Commendation in 2003 from the Chief Constable, a testament to his selflessness and character both on and off the field.

"His kindness, generosity, and unwavering commitment to his community made him an admired and respected figure in Wrexham.

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"Dave was devoted to his beloved wife, Barbara, with whom he shared 68 wonderful years of marriage. He was a proud father to his three daughters, Michelle, Lesley, and Nicola, and a loving grandfather to Joel, Emily, Eleanor, Ted, and Edith. His family was his greatest joy, and his legacy will live on through them.

"In these past few weeks of illness, Dave was surrounded by the love and support of the many friends he made throughout his life—friends who, like so many in Wrexham and beyond, will miss him dearly.

"Dave Gaskell leaves behind not just a remarkable sporting legacy, but an enduring example of kindness, dedication, and humility. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him."

Former Wrexham manager Arfon Griffiths was in the team when John Neal signed him from Wigan Athletic in 1968.

“We needed a goalkeeper and Dave was brilliant for Wrexham,” said Griffiths

“He was a real character and I had a lot of time for him. He was just the kind of player Wrexham wanted.

“He was a very good keeper and he was a hardman too. He’d punch with one hand and get the striker with the other!”

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