Brian Jamieson of Torphins, a construction site manager who raised thousands of pounds for charity over two decades, has died aged 56.
When his own father, Charlie, died from cancer in 2002, Brian, known as BJ, dedicated his leisure time to supporting cancer charities.
Then, when BJ was diagnosed with mesothelioma in 2021, he stepped up his fundraising efforts. His final event was a skydive at Glenrothes at the end of March.
Family and friends estimate BJ raised well over £30,000 for cancer charities, including Friends of Anchor, over the years.
Brian was burn at Torphins Hospital in June 1966 to lorry driver, Charlie, and school cook, Tizzy, and grew up with elder sister, Evelyn, and younger brother, Roger.
School days
He was educated at Kincardine O’ Neil Primary School then Aboyne Academy which he left age 16 to begin a joinery apprenticeship with Christie of Banchory. He combined vocational training with college study.
After serving his time, BJ worked for various construction companies including Stewart Milne, Allan Grant and Scotia Homes before a period working for himself in the London area.
In 2006 he lost several fingers on his left hand in an accident at work. BJ was left handed so he had to learn to write, play golf, darts and everyday tasks with his right hand.
The accident also forced him to rethink his career and he moved from craft joinery to site supervision.
Eventually he joined Cala Homes as an assistant site manager before being promoted to a site manager working across Aberdeen city and Aberdeenshire.
Steve Jarvie, construction director with Cala Homes, said: “Liked and respected universally by colleagues, customers and our external partners, BJ, was a huge presence within the Cala team, who brought a smile to everyone he came into contact with.
“He was a keen supporter of our apprentices, passing on his experience and knowledge to future generations.
“His integrity and positive approach to embracing life, taking joy in doing your best, supporting others and smiling along the way, will remain an inspiration to his colleagues and friends at Cala.”
Fundraising begins
After his father died, BJ’s first fundraiser was when he dyed his hair red in the Learney Arms, Torphins. He took part in Strictly Come Prancing at the British Legion, Banchory, to raise money for the Forget Me Not Club, and held a Hawaiian-themed race night for his 50th birthday in 2016, for Friends of Anchor.
His brother, Roger, said: “After his diagnosis in October 2021, BJ started his treatment in January 2022 which led to him applying to take part in Brave.
“His application was successful and he was delighted to be taking part in this two-night catwalk charity event at the Beach Ballroom, raising an amazing amount of money, making many friends who helped each another through their illnesses.”
Until recently, BJ was a member at Torphins Golf Club but due to his illness he found it hard to continue but still enjoyed an annual golf weekend away with Roger.
Days at the races
He often attended racing at Perth and York and one week before his death, he managed to attend the meeting in Perth.
BJ never married but took great satisfaction in being a loving uncle to Lauren, Paul, Ross, Robbie and Mollie, playing a big part of their lives from watching them play football, playing golf with them and picking them up from friends and school.
Another part of BJs life was helping out Station Garage in Torphins, setting up for shows in the summer at Keith and Turriff to name but a few, often staying away the whole weekend.
Roger said: “He was kind hearted, generous, always smiling, full of fun and mischief. In fact someone once described him as a lovable rogue. BJ will be sorely missed by everyone who know him but leaves us with many fond and happy memories.”
You can read the family’s announcement here.
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