A Book of Condolence in memory of Sir Ian Wood will be opened in Aberdeen on Monday, following his sad death this week at the age of 84. 

Hosted in the reception area of Aberdeen’s Town House on Castle Street, with kind permission of the Lord Provost, the Book will be open between 9am and 5pm from Monday 3rd August to Friday 21st August for members of the public, friends and former colleagues of Sir Ian to offer their own written tributes and memories. The Book of Condolence will also be available to sign online for those unable to attend in person, with those tributes added to the final bound volume – to be shared with the Wood family.

One of Aberdeen’s most famous sons, Sir Ian Wood transformed a family-owned marine business into a global engineering company and shaped the course of the UK industry. He left an indelible imprint on Aberdeen, establishing the city as one of the world’s leading centres of offshore energy while – in more recent years – championing its transition to a more diverse economy. 

Sir Ian Wood died peacefully at his home in Aberdeen on Sunday 26th July 2026. He is survived by his wife, Lady Helen, their sons Nicholas, Graham and Garreth and by seven grandchildren.

On behalf of the Wood family, Garreth Wood said: “My family would like to take opportunity to extend our heartfelt gratitude for the many kind messages we have received and tributes made following the passing of Dad. This has been a source of great support to us all as we continue to mourn his loss.

“We are very grateful to the Lord Provost and Aberdeen City Council for arranging a book of condolence which is a lovely and fitting way for people to share their own memories of Dad, should they wish to do so.”

Lord Provost of Aberdeen, Dr David Cameron said: "Sir Ian Wood was an extraordinary businessman, philanthropist and advocate for our city whose influence extended far beyond the North-east.

"Through his vision and leadership, he helped transform a family business into a global company and played a pivotal role in establishing Aberdeen’s international reputation as a centre of energy expertise. Through The Wood Foundation and his many charitable endeavours, he also demonstrated a deep commitment to tackling inequality, creating opportunity and improving lives both at home and overseas.

"On behalf of the people of Aberdeen, I extend my deepest condolences to Lady Helen and their family. Sir Ian’s contribution to Aberdeen, Scotland and beyond was immense, and he will be remembered with gratitude and admiration for generations to come. 

“To allow people from Aberdeen and from around the world to share their tributes and memories, we will open a Book of Condolence in honour of Sir Ian Wood from Monday.” 

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