Tributes paid to Broxburn-born 'legend of the Scottish plant hire industry' Gordon Bow

Tributes have been paid to Broxburn-born businessman Gordon Bow, who has been described as a "legend of the Scottish plant hire industry".

Mr Bow, who founded Gordon Bow Plant Hire Ltd in 1982, died aged 68 on Thursday September 24 following a long battle with ill health.

Born in Broxburn in January 1958, the youngest of five children, he left Broxburn Academy to work as an apprentice plant fitter.

Gordon Bow, right, pictured with his son Graham, left, who joined him in the family business he founded in 1982 in Broxburn. | Submitted

He then met Maisie McCreight and the couple were married in 1977 at the age of 19. They had two sons, Graham and Stuart. Sadly, Stuart passed away at the young age of 25.

Gordon started his own business in 1982, Gordon Bow Plant & Motor Vehicle Engineers, based in Broxburn, which then developed into two companies - Gordon Bow Plant Hire Ltd and Gordon Bow Engineering Ltd - also based in Broxburn, supported by his wife Maisie.

Through his hard work, determination, and vision, he laid the foundations for a business that has continued to grow and provide opportunities for so many over the years.

In 2011 Gordon was diagnosed with cancer. He went through various bouts of treatment and managed to battle through, almost regaining full health.

The business grew from strength to strength and formed some great relationships, some of which continue to this day.

Whilst he was ill, Gordon’s son Graham joined the business and quickly found himself behind his father’s desk leading the way forward, growing the business with guidance from Gordon. Graham joined the business in December 2003 and took the reins in 2013 after his father’s cancer returned.

Leading the tributes to his father, Graham said: “His strength and resilience were an inspiration to those around him.

“My dad was a man with a big personality and a strong character. He was a businessman, a husband, a father, a grandad, and a true friend to many.

“He made a lasting impression on the people and community around him. He was much more than a business owner.

“He was a familiar and important part of the company’s history and a person whose presence, dedication and influence will be remembered by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.”

Gordon Bow, inset, ran his Broxburn-based business for 44 years. | Submitted

Plant director at the West Lothian company, Jason Taylor, highlighted Gordon’s legacy and values.

He said: “Over the years Gordon has helped many people and many charities, he was a big part of the local community and had a big involvement in the Scottish Plant Owners Association (SPOA), for which he was a past president, and he was proud when his son Graham followed him into the chair eight years later.

“Within his time on the committee and beyond he was a passionate supporter of its work and its members, and continued to show a keen interest within the SPOA.

“Some comments of late have suggested that he was a legend of the Scottish plant hire industry. Gordon was a highly respected and much valued member of the SPOA over many years and will be remembered with great appreciation.

“Gordon’s legacy and values will remain an important part of the business, and he will be deeply missed by everyone who knew him.”

Others in the plant hire industry paid tribute to Gordon. Blackwood Plant Hire said: “A legend of the industry! Such sad news - our thoughts are with Graham and family.”

Alan Montgomery, director at MST Ltd, said: “Anyone who knew Gordon, knew what he achieved in the industry. We can only imagine the personal battle he has had with his illness over the last few years, and we can only pray that he didn’t suffer at the end, and our thoughts are with the family.”

Gordon Bow Plant Hire Ltd has continued to grow since it was founded by Gordon in Broxburn back in 1982. | Submitted

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Lee Mathieson, director at KL Concrete Cutting Services, said: “A true gentleman, always had time for everyone. Such sad news, just does not feel real. I always looked forward to catching up with Gordon when I could, he helped me out a lot. Like I’m sure he did with many others.”

Phyllis Carroll, director at Kilmarnock FC said that one of Gordon’s proudest moments was when his son, Graham, became managing director of the company.

She added: “Condolences to the Bow family and the team at Gordon Bow at this very sad time.”

Meanwhile, Steven Mackay from ACREO Construction Ltd said: “So sorry to hear this. I had many laughs with Gordon over the years at various plant functions or trips away.

“Condolences to the family at this sad time. A genuinely good lad who will be missed. RIP Gordon.”