In Memory of

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Aidan Joseph O'Brien

Those of us that were lucky enough to work with Aidan in his 5 short years with Crown Agents Bank, and those of us who were even luckier to get to know him as a friend, were shocked to hear of his sad and sudden passing.

 

Book Owner: Steven Smith

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Michael Ward

I’m not sure where to begin, but Aidan meant so much to so many people. He was clever, not just in a professional capacity, but would always be my first choice partner in any pub quiz. His knowledge spanned banking, politics, sport, geographies, literature, arts, music – you name it, Aidan was able to add something intelligent to the conversation no matter what the subject was. I met Aidan in 2017 and instantly knew he was someone I could turn to for advice and support. He was always there to help when needed. Like Aidan, I spent time away from home, staying in Sutton during the week. We shared a lot of time together and I know how much of a family man Aidan was. He often spoke of his wife and children and loved when Marie was coming down to London to watch a show together. He spoke so proudly of his sons and it was clear they meant the world to him. He was a devoted husband who loved his family so much. Being from Northern Ireland too, Aidan and I would often reminisce about our experiences growing up there. The gaelic football, families, schooling and of …

John Pakenham-Walsh

As a work colleague, Aidan was that very rare example of somene who was both a consumate professional and a consumate human being. He could always be relied on for top quality contributions into a discussion or a report yet was always there with a friendly face, a fabulous sense of humour and that infectious Irish laughter. He was one of those very few people you meet in life – and this is the biggest compliment I can pay him – that after you’d spent time with him, you could not leave without thinking the world was a better place. You will  be sorely missed Aidan. If there were more like you, the world would be a better place for all of us.    …

Steven Smith

I’m glad I didn’t know  The way that it would end The way that it would go Our lives are better left to chance I could have missed the pain But I would have had to miss the dance …

Richard Hallett

Aidan was a remarkable individual on so many levels and his untimely passing has saddened, touched and impacted so many of the people who had the absolute pleasure of knowing him. I only knew him in a professional capacity, but what shone through was a man of enormous character, humility, infectious humour and happiness – you always finished a conversation with Aidan with a plan (…and a backup plan to boot!), more insight but importantly with more joy! incredibly personable, pragmatic and fun to know! I was struck at Aidan’s funeral what a remarkable family and circle of friends he has. To Marie, Michael and James, he will be very sadly missed. I have warm and joyous memories of your husband/Dad and please accept my heartfelt condolences – he has left us all way too soon! Richard …

Seema Vaja

It’s still quite difficult to put into words how I felt when I learnt of Aidans’ passing. I even sent him a text as I refused to believe it was true… He was the most brilliant manager and mentor I have had and I hoped to have worked with him again in the future. Aidan taught me so much in the short time he managed me and gave me the confidence I never knew I had. He was approachable and never made you feel junior to him! I regularly kept in contact with Aidan after he left CAB as he was always the best at giving me advice and guiding me with career moves. I feel completely lost as I still think of Aidan every time I need some advice. He always lit up the room with his warm presence, kind smile and witty sense of humour. My thoughts and prayers go out to Aidans’ family as I cannot begin to understand what they are going through. Aidan filled a lot of hearts and is missed very much.  …

Rory Hanly

When people like Aidan come into your life, you know you have just met a friend for life. That time was cut too short for all of us. We will not get to do the things we had planned but that does not matter anymore as we are left with countless joyful memories of the good times we did have. I can thank Aidan for many things and will never let go of the positive impact he had on me and others. Rest in Peace our good friend. …

Grant Murray

Well what do I say about Aidan that others haven’t already said. As we all knew he was everyone’s friend he was always there for a chat (beer), was always offering advice and was a very open and honest person, always telling you how it was. When I decided to leave Crown Agents last year he was the first to offer me advice and told me to make decisions and never look back or regret them, I will never forget that. We both left the CAB at the same time and continued to talk and catchup when he ventured back down to Sutton. I will definately miss those catchup as I’m sure we all will. Rest in Peace Aidan you will always be remembered. Grant.    …

Doug MacLennan

You never know who you’re going to get when you hire someone, but I quickly learned that Aidan was one of the best hires I have ever made. Not only did he bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, but he also brought his sense of humour, his practicality, his drive and enthusiasm, and his ability to get on with just about anyone. I think he may have reconsidered the role when he found out I was a Rangers supporter, but we became good friends over the next 6 years despite that, so I think he forgave me! He even managed not to complain (too) much about the St Nicholas House offices where he started with Crown Agents (they were really terrible – a real Operational Risk Manager’s nightmare!!). It’s difficult to think of Aidan not being with us any longer – he was so full of plans for his future, whether it was putting up the (Christmas) decos; coming down for a rugby match; or the next holiday with Marie, Michael and James, who he adored. My thoughts are with the three of you, especially.   We’ve all lost a really good guy, much too soon. …

Mike Sweeney

To my friend Aidan, You are sorely missed, not just by me but it goes without saying your immediate family being your wife, sons, wider family and many friends. You brought light, laughter and happiness into so many lives whom you met whether socially or through the workplace. We first met at Crown Agents Bank in 2016/17 and, on a social level used to frequent O’Neills every now and again and, in earlier times participate in the weekly Pub Quiz at Shinner’s. As part of our Irish group of either ex or still employed CAB buddies, we also used to meet up for regular catch-up’s. I, for one, miss those and I will reach out to the Guys so we can pick back up and have a drink in your memory.  May Gold Bless Your Family Aidan and May You Rest in Peace my Friend.  Mike Sweeney     …

Chris Green

I joined CAB in March 2020 as the CRO and Aidan new line manager. It was at the early stages of covid and lockdown. Aidan was welcoming and friendly which quickly helped me settle into the role. He was always the consummate professional and someone that I regularly went to get his views and advice on a range of things. I recall him saying at the time that he could name all 200 employees of the bank which I didn’t challenge him on as I knew he was probably right! We very quicky developed a good working relationship and I would count him as a friend that we kept in touch after he left. When Aidan decided to leave CAB at the end-2021 in order to spend more time with his family, he took it upon himself to make sure he/we found a befitting successor for his role. He was always the organiser and genuinely cared about doing the right thing. He was our team social secretary and was set on arranging and participating in our 2021 Christmas Party before he left us at end-2021. I remember insisting that Christmas parties couldn’t be in November and so he arranged …