Fryksände church accommodated 600 people. But far more wanted to say goodbye to coaching legend Sven-Göran Eriksson.
"Svennis" wished for the ceremony to be a folkloric and joyful occasion, open to the public. And hundreds of Värmlanders had gathered outside to follow the funeral via a large screen.
In the pews sat many relatives and friends, but also some well-known names that "Svennis" had met during his long coaching career.
Burst into tears
One of those who was visibly emotional was "Svennis" ex-partner Nancy Dell'Olio, who shared a hug with superstar David Beckham before taking her seat.
Roy Hodgson, Håkan Mild, Hasse Backe, Kim Källström, Glenn Hysén, and Glenn Strömberg were other well-known football names in the rows.
And not least the family and the 95-year-old father Sven Eriksson. He was held by his son Johan Eriksson during the flower-laying ceremony, and "Svennis" partner of 15 years, Yaniseth Alcides, couldn't hold back her tears.
The ceremony was held in both Swedish and English, and Pastor Ingela Älvskog spoke about a man who wore suits even as a child.
Sven-Göran was never late, preferably 5-10 minutes early. Taking it easy on vacation was never an option. Breakfast at 8, walk at 9. He loved routines and discipline, but he was also a great enjoyer of life who loved good food and drink and traveling first class.
"Genuinely kind"
He was genuinely kind and never caused any problems. He was a loving father who was always there for you, said Älvskog.
Among the music performed were Elton John's "Candle in the wind" and Frank Sinatra's "My way".
And your footsteps will always fall here. Along Frykens greenest hills, sang Charlotta Birgersson.
The entire funeral ended with the Värmland song, performed on guitar by Sven-Ingvars frontman Oscar Magnusson, after which the company marched out to a waiting brass orchestra. The coffin was carried out by players from "Svennis" childhood club Torsby IF and family, including son and grandchildren.
Dad's corner of the world
"Svennis" passed away almost three weeks ago due to cancer. He was 76 years old. After the funeral, a memorial service was held at Kollberg hembygdsgård by Frykens strand, where more music and speeches took place.
This was dad's corner of the world, said son Johan Eriksson.
Daughter Lina Eriksson added.
Dad got his overtime, as he used to joke, with a twinkle in his eye.
She concluded with his own words.
Live your life, life is beautiful.
The funeral for Sven-Göran Eriksson included the following music:
Intro music – Sailing.
Psalm 231 – Infinite mercy (Amazing Grace).
Solo song – Let the heart be me.
Solo song – Candle in the Wind.
Psalm 11 – O great God (How Great Thou Art).
Solo song – My Way.
Solo song – Volare.
Closing music – Värmlandsvisan
