Not only was it an absolute honour to work with Willie, but also just knowing him. I was already working on Lower Thames Crossing for some time when Willie was being introduced to the Main Crossing design team as their new Lead. It became clear to me very quickly with each visit down to London that Willie was an incredibly special guy, and that there were very many people before me who knew this already – as shown by the other messages written in this book. He was easily the biggest name in COWI, and with good reason too. A giant both in literal and metaphorical terms!

Beyond his well-known vast technical and managerial wisdom, Willie had this presence in the room that was truly unmatched. He wore his heart on his sleeve, was very warm and down-to-earth, and showed a huge amount of care for those he worked with. He really was a father figure for a wide spread of people over many years. I loved working in Willie’s team on LTC and he was very supportive to me during my journey of learning about my dyslexia. Whenever I or anyone wanted to have a chat with him he always seemed to have all the time in the world, listening to every word, totally unrushed, even after working hours. He loved to tell stories and have a good laugh. Willie seemed to have the perfect balance of being funny, firm and fair. As well as being a thoughtful listener he also carried a voice of authority, and I fondly remember even some moments of thoroughly enjoyable sassiness in some meetings! During COVID Willie made sure that we as a team still got to bond with each other and ring in the weekends by running what became known as the “Friday Beer & Nuts” Teams calls, which were a real highlight. I loved seeing his updates on building his own house extension and meeting Mac!

Willie was passionate about peoples’ development, and particularly “enjoyed” ensuring that chartership candidates were ready for their review. It became a rite of passage that one of the mock reviews one goes through should involve the ultimate Willie Cannon grilling. I recently sat my chartership review and would have loved to have gone to Willie first for a mock review that would have put me through my paces.

Willie will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. To Willie’s family – I’m so sorry for your loss, and sending my deepest condolences.