Tribute to ‘l’Avi del Barça’ FC Barcelona Pays Respects to Joan Casals

FC Barcelona’s Eduard Romeu and Josep Ignasi Macià visited the funeral home of Joan Casals Boixader, affectionately known as ‘l’Avi del Barça,’ on Friday. Joan Casals, a beloved figure in the club’s fan community, passed away at the age of 90 on Wednesday. Recognized for his striking resemblance to an image created by artist Valentí Castanys in the 1920s, Joan Casals was cherished for his kindness, unwavering support for the club, and readiness to participate in various events.

Since his passing, the Barça community has stood by his family. The funeral took place at the Bagà funeral home, where FC Barcelona’s Economic Vice President Eduard Romeu and Social Affairs Director Josep Ignasi Macià joined Joan Casals’s widow and children. The overwhelming display of floral tributes from different locations underscored the deep appreciation the fan community held for him.

In an effort to honor the legacy of ‘l’Avi del Barça,’ a farewell ceremony will be held on Saturday at 11 AM in the multipurpose hall of Guardiola de Berguedà, Joan Casals’s hometown. Maria Elena Fort, FC Barcelona’s Institutional Vice President, will attend the ceremony, accompanied by Jordi Casals, President of Barça Atlètic.

Expressing their gratitude for Joan Casals’s contributions, the FC Barcelona board has extended an invitation to his family to watch an upcoming match from the executive box at the Olímpic Lluís Companys stadium. During the match, a minute of silence will be observed in memory of ‘l’Avi del Barça.’