Sir Ian Wood, the billionaire entrepreneur who built the Wood Group into a global energy services giant, has died peacefully at his home in Aberdeen at the age of 84. His family confirmed his passing, remembering him as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather.
From fishing to North Sea oil fortune
Sir Ian amassed his wealth in the North Sea oil sector. He took control of the family fishing business in 1967 and transformed it into an engineering and consultancy firm that serviced the rapidly expanding offshore industry. At its peak, the Wood Group was worth over £5 billion and undertook energy projects across the globe.
He stepped down as chairman in 2012. In 1994, he received a knighthood for services to the oil and gas industry, and was later appointed to the Order of the Thistle, Scotland's highest chivalric honour.
'Extra hot tea in Heaven' - family statement
In a statement, Sir Ian's relatives said: "Sir Ian was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend. While many knew him as an entrepreneur, philanthropist and one of Scotland's most influential business leaders, those closest to him will remember above all his kindness, generosity, determination and unwavering commitment to his family."
Born and raised in Aberdeen, he dedicated his life to building opportunities for others. Through the growth of the business that bore his family name and through decades of philanthropic work, he sought to create lasting positive change both in Scotland and around the world.
Philanthropic legacy
His commitment to education, enterprise and social impact led to the creation of The Wood Foundation and numerous other initiatives that have helped young people, communities and families realise their potential. Sir Ian is survived by his wife Helen, to whom he was married for 55 years, their three sons Nic, Graham and Garreth, and seven grandchildren.
The family thanked the healthcare professionals who cared for him and asked for privacy as they mourn. The statement ended with a typically Scottish touch: "May the tea in Heaven always be 'extra hot'."
