The family of a "kind and caring" 65-year-old who passed away unexpectedly is urging Town fans to get involved in a minutes applause at Portman Road on Saturday.

Robert McWilliams, otherwise known as Dobbs, has been a season ticket holder at Ipswich Town for the last 20 seasons and was among those to see the team's last outing in the Premier League. 

On July 21, the Ipswich resident passed away after a short and unexpected sudden illness, despite working just two days prior.

The 65-year-old was looking forward to watching his team play back in the Premier League after 22 years away, and he was also looking forward to his planned retirement next year.

Dobbs (left) with his grandchildren, son and daughter-in-law.Dobbs (left) with his grandchildren, son and daughter-in-law. (Image: Submitted)

His daughter-in-law, Michelle McWilliams, said: "He was kind and caring.

"He was very hard working and would drop what he was doing to help someone else out.

"He was known for helping people with car problems. He was a lorry driver but would help anyone out if they had a problem with their car with his toolbox and manual.

DobbsDobbs had been a season ticket older at Ipswich Town for 20 years. (Image: Submitted)

"He also loved his football, he watched Town get promoted in 2000 at Wembley with his son and was able to watch Town get promoted again in May with his son, myself and his grandchildren.

"He was really looking forward to the new season and the Liverpool game."

His family are encouraging Town fans at the game on Saturday, against Liverpool, to participate in a minutes applause in the 65th minute to honour his memory.

Dobbs has been a season ticket holder at Ipswich for 20 yearsDobbs has been a season ticket holder at Ipswich for 20 years (Image: Submitted)

Michelle continued: "The response has been amazing.

"People have said they will join in and they have shared my posts in forums on social media."

A picture of Dobbs will appear in the matchday programme and will appear on the big screen at half time.

Dobbs passed away in JulyDobbs passed away in July (Image: Submitted)