Laing O’Rourke co-founder and deputy chair Des O’Rourke has died aged 75.
O’Rourke was the co-founder of Laing O’Rourke, the largest privately owned construction company in the UK, and brother of fellow deputy chair Ray O’Rourke, 77.
Ray and Des founded R. O’Rourke & Son in 1978 as a regionally based formwork and concrete specialists, before merging with John Laing Plc in 2001.
The family released a statement on Wednesday confirming his passing.
The statement said: “It is with deep sadness that Des O’Rourke’s family confirm his passing earlier today.
“Des had been ill for a short period, and he passed away surrounded by his immediate and extended family.
“The O’Rourke family now asks for privacy at this time to allow us to come to terms with this loss.
“May Des rest in peace.”
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