This heartbreaking news is such a loss - reading all the messages from all who have met or know James are a great testament to what a brilliant and kind guy he is.

James and I were both incredibly lucky to join a fantastic group of grads in Birmingham (including 3x James in one intake!) and through a combination of some repetitive audit scheduling, our shared passion for an after work / weekend drink and a sassy chat, enjoyed so many memorable times together.

It’s clear to see that the welcoming, fun and loving guy I met in Birmingham continued to take his amazing character with him as he journeyed across the world and settled in Canada.

James, know that you’ve made such a big impression on so many people and you’re still in our thoughts no matter how long it’s been since we’ve last seen each other.

It is absolutely heartbreaking to learn of this tragedy. I met James in 2006 as his form tutor and had the pleasure of knowing him well during his seven years at St Peter’s Catholic School.

He would possibly agree that the highlights of that time were the two trips we took. We went to Belgium on his 15th Birthday - cake, candles in the restaurant in Ypres. And went to Berlin and Krakow in Sixth Form.

I am so pleased to read how successful and happy he was after leaving school.

As is tradition, I added him to our Bede Roll and his name was recalled in remembrance today in our special remembrance mass.

I am really sad that his life was cut too short. A kind, decent, interesting and determined young man. My heartfelt sympathy to all his family. May he rest in peace.

James,

I knew you through your proud Mom, Margherita, from when you were a young primary school-aged boy and was lucky enough to meet you several times over the years as you grew. You were always warm, witty and kind. I remember how fearless you were too and the big life that you led; pursuing your dreams with outdoors adventures to far flung places. You loss is a terrible sadness.

Sending love to all of your family and especially to your parents Margherita and Adrian, who always loved you so much.

Rest in peace, James. "Life is but a moment ... but love lives forever."

Love from Sue, Simon and Anna xxx

I’ve known James since we were 14, when we met through Scouts. I was lucky to spend so many of the following years in James’s company, invariably outdoors and often laughing. When I think back to that time, I now barely recognise that slightly awkward and reserved boy. He seemed to have grown so much into himself since then, especially since moving to Canada and meeting Justin.

James was such an unwavering friend, and I’ll miss the familiar message “I’m going to be back in the UK next week - let me know if you fancy drinks!” and of course the answer was always yes. His sassy comments, even with a Calgary-twang, accompanied with his familiar raised eyebrows made you feel at home. It was as though no time had ever passed between meeting up. Of course for him, there was always a new adventure to tell you about. I don’t think he could’ve squeezed much more into life if he tried. He became a man of great taste, and I only hope we toasted his life with a suitable quality bottle of red - although he wasn’t a snob with wine as he joked with me once, if it wasn’t that great to drink then it would still be good enough to cook with so definitely wouldn’t go to waste! He loved the business class life that Justin afforded him, and he really lit up whenever talking about their life together.

My heartfelt condolences go to Justin, Adrian and Margherita. James was truly one of a kind.

James was the first person I met when I joined Deloitte in early 2023. My most fond memory is him teaching me accounting concepts using a whiteboard in his office, using diagrams and graphs and everything. He mentioned that it was how he was taught by his previous managers, and how he would like to carry it forward.

He was a fantastic manager, and I enjoyed my time working with him over the past two years, especially the in-between conversations we had about various topics such as his wedding and his travel plans. I will always cherish his constant guidance and support, and will never forget the reassurance that he provided at the start of my career. Thank you James.

My sincere condolences to the Downey and Bergamin families; the ceremony touched my heart. My prayers are with you.

I first met James two years ago when I started as a Staff Accountant at Deloitte. During this time, James became a close friend, role model and mentor to me.

James was someone who always pushed me to be the best accountant and professional that I could be. He had the faith to encourage me to step out of my comfort zone to take on new challenges, but also the patience to sit down after to offer advice and work through issues. He was supportive, kind, funny, professional, and human. In short, he made every day at work an enjoyable, positive learning experience. I cannot fully express how much I owe to him and how much I valued him as both a mentor and a friend.

My deepest sympathies to the Downey and Bergamin families, my heart goes out to you all. James is someone who touched everyone he met; he will always be in my heart.

I'm glad I got to see you last year when you came back to the UK for a visit. Aside from your new accent (everything going up at the end like a question), it was clear to me that you were happy. And that is the most important thing.

We will miss you, and we will think of you.

Abida

I hardly know what to say, this is such a sad loss. James was such a beautiful soul, truly someone who could make you smile and laugh. Every time we spoke at work, I could feel how warm and geunine he was. I was truly happy for him that he found the love of his life and was having so many great adventures. My deepest sympathies to Justin, to his mom and dad and to all his family and friends. James will be missed.

I have known Justin and the rest of the Bergamin crew my whole life as our parents have been very good friends for over 30 years. I still look forward to seeing Justins life updates on Instagram. Like when I heard about Justin and James dating and then a few years later seeing the announcement of their engagement on Instagram. I was so happy for them. I was fortunate to be able to make it to their beautiful wedding in Calgary last year. I truly have never been to a wedding so welcoming and joyful. When I met James at the wedding I remember him smiling at me and he said “I’ve heard so much about you” followed by a warm hug. I knew instantly that I liked him. He had this quiet, warm, and inviting energy about him that made me feel at ease. I remember having the best time dancing with him and Justin at the wedding. I felt the beauty of their love and thought I would be so lucky to have a love like theirs someday. I looked forward to coming back to Calgary and getting the chance to know him better. I only knew him for a short period of time but his beautiful smile, bright blue eyes, lovely British accent, and obvious adoration for Justin will stick with me forever. I am so sad to hear about his passing and wish I could’ve spent more time getting to know him. Sending all my love to the Downey family and to the Bergamin’s who mean so much to me.

JD,

So many amazing hikes and adventures - I will forever miss you

James, I hope you know how much of a beautiful soul you are. The warmth and care you shown to me will always stay with me and it stood out more than I think you ever knew.

It makes me so happy knowing you made the life in Canada and had the beautiful life that we both hoped for.

I remember you refusing for me to take the train and spending a hour taking me home and not allowing me to do it. You made sure I got home okay and didn’t care about the time.

You gave me so much comfort knowing we missed England for the food. God, you loved the food at home so much and those hash browns you missed so much.

I’m going to miss the food pictures and how much you cared for me. Even when I went home you reached out and made sure I was okay even though I want in a good place.

We missed the Friday night drinks in England and made an effort to make it happen.

I really was hoping to link up back in England on our travels as we loved travelling so much. Like after your trip to Hawaii and we went for food and I said that’s one in a lifetime thing and you was like well actually I’m going again in 4 weeks hahah.

You really will be remembered as a beautiful soul that really cares about people deeply and has the most beautiful home, cat and the best husband.

You’ll always be in my heart and your love and care you showed me will be carried with me forever

James,

You were a shining beacon in a dark world where generosity and warmth goes a long way. Beginning my career at Deloitte, you were my first mentor, friend and confidant in what led to be a fulfilling and rewarding time together. You wore your heart on your sleeve and welcomed all with open arms, quirky jokes and an infectious smile. Being serenaded by your ABBA at karaoke, I'll always hold dear to my heart. You live on through all the valuable teachings and guidance you've provided to me and so many others as we cherish your memory. I am grateful and blessed to spend any amount of time with such a genuine individual and I wouldn't be where I was today without you. I am proud to call you my friend and mentor and thank you for our time together.

Justin,

I can't even begin to express my deepest condolences and sorrows for your loss. Through our time together, James always made it evident that you were the brightest light, tackling all challenges together and enjoying each other's presence and love. The way James treated others is a shining example for all to learn with his kind smile and warm approach with how he cared for others. I hope with time and family, the wounds heal to provide you peace and solace.

Margherita and Adrian,

I am so sorry for your tragic loss and my condolences. Having known James for the last number of years, we grew that bond from my time as an associate to a senior. He spent those years mentoring and guiding me in all things work and life, whether it be related to accounting policies or how to plan a wedding. Be very proud of the person James became as you have done an amazing job raising him to impact the world to be better. Please know he will always be in my heart.

Leon

James it was a pleasure getting to know you these past 3 years. I know we would be fast friends because of your humour and sass, of course your love of tea, travel, and the person you were. I know how much others enjoyed learning from you and it was great having you as a friend and teammate. I will miss our talks my heart breaks for your loved one’s profound loss.

Justin - we never met but James spoke of you so often and it was so clear how special you were to him. James spoke of your wedding planning and then wedding itself often and of your family and extended family. I am so deeply sorry for your incredible loss.

My dearest James, your smile would radiate pure joy, happiness and love. I was very blessed to get to know you and become instant friends thru Justin. My memories of you, will never fade… I love you both dearly and with all my heart. We will meet in Heaven one day soon … Marne Guenther

I can’t even begin to describe the horrible pain I felt upon hearing the news of James’ passing. Having known him ever since we were little kids my mind has been replaying over all the wonderful and happy memories we both shared over the years. From pretending to be characters from Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings” in Moseley Bog to jetting off to Disneyland Paris to celebrate James’ birthday whilst our parents worried something crazy back home in the UK. When James left for Canada I naturally missed him, but I was proud to see how much of a success he made of himself and to see all of his incredible travels from around the world through our social media accounts. When he married Justin last year I was gutted not to be able to attend the wedding but I was again proud to see and hear about how great a day it was for them, and most of all to see James really happy and ready to start the next chapter of his life. Now that he is gone I am heartbroken and my heart continues to break when I think of Justin, Adrian, Margarita and all his family at this terrible time. I truly feel as though I have lost my little brother. Rest in peace old friend, til we meet again.

I was so sorry to hear the tragic news that you have lost James. I can’t imagine the feelings which you and the rest of your families have been experiencing and I wanted you to know that I have been thinking of you all.

I worked with James at Deloitte in Birmingham and he was so good at keeping in touch once he had moved to Canada. I had lunch with him on one of those return visits in 2022 but sadly I was not around for his most recent visit this summer. I still remember the maple cookies he brought back on one of his trips! James was always so thoughtful and caring - and always so thankful for the opportunity to fulfil his dream and work in Canada and travel.

When I think of his regular return trips to the UK, photos he shared of his life in Canada, his wedding last summer, and stories of Canadian life I can only picture someone so full of life and somebody very special.

I won’t pretend to understand the shock and grief that you must all be feeling at the moment. I hope that you and your families can take some comfort from the outpouring of love from those who knew James. I am thinking about you all.

Jonathan

Justin, I am so sad about your loss. I know you meant the world to James and he loved you deeply and completely.

I met James in Peru on my very first long-distance trek. We hiked the Inca trail to Machu Pichu. We shared so many laughs and stories and he didn’t seem to care that I was old enough to be his grandmother. In fact, he called me big Sis and that warmed my heart. We seem to have an instant bond which I came to discover was the same with all of James’ friends. He had a way to make those around him feel like they were his good friends. He genuinely loved us all. And he was so good at staying connected.

I felt honored to have been invited to his wedding. And what a wedding it was!!! Extraordinary from beginning to end in typical James fashion. I had so much fun and had a wonderful reunion with fellow trekkers. That was James, keeping friends connected in a warm and wonderful way.

It was such a joy meeting Justin, the man he loved and cherished so very much. Meeting James family, friends, and extended family was a gift I shall aways remember. He spoke kindly of everyone often. My deepest condolences, sympathy and loving thoughts go out to Justin, all his families, and friends. We have lost a shining star among us.

My life has been enriched in so many ways because of my friendship with James. I am so grateful we were friends and made lasting memories. I will miss him greatly.

Chris and Bernie Woollard.

We came to know James through our close friendship with his parents Margherita and Adrian. He was their only son and occupies a special and irreplaceable place in their hearts. Words cannot express the shock and sadness we feel on James’ passing.

We used to love hearing all about his many adventures all around the world. James had a great passion for life and most certainly lived it to the full. After James moved to Calgary, we were delighted to hear that he had met and become engaged to Justin, who we know was incredibly special to him. We also know that in marrying Justin he had found his soul mate and complete happiness. We offer our condolences to Margherita, Adrian, Justin and Justin’s family.

May you rest in peace James.

James, I can still remember the first night we met back in Peru in 2017 getting ready to hike up to Machu Picchu, being able to talk about the UK and all your plans for the future. Since then I was lucky enough to watch you develop as a person and be happy as yourself. It was great watching you explore the world and make a life for yourself in Canada. Every time we caught up we always had lots to talk about by sharing our travel and life experiences. I’ll forever remember our last catch up in Calgary.

Justin - We never managed to meet, however, I know from James how important you were to him and how much he loved the life and home you had built for yourselves.

I’m sending all my thoughts and prayers to all of James’ loved ones! Today and always may loving memories bring you peace, comfort and strength.

James, I first met you during our first audit together within Deloitte and our friendship has remained strong since. Over the years, we discussed many things, like your lasagne with half-a-bottle of red wine recipe, Canada aspirations, trekking around the world (and the adventures that went with it), getting engaged/married and moving to a new house. I was so pleased when you made you dream come true and moved to Canada, I had no doubt that you would love it! Despite being on a different continent, I was so pleased and fortunate that our conversations still carried on - You always made me laugh! You were so kind, funny and your personality lighted up the room.

There are no words really to truly express my shock at your sudden passing. I am so proud to have called you my friend, and I will miss you so much, you will always be in my thoughts.

Justin - although I have never met you in person, when talking to James I knew that you were a very special person to him. He was so happy when he talked about you and was so excited when he married you. James always mentioned how much he loved travelling with you. I cannot imagine what you are feeling right now, but I hope that your memories of your loved one will provide you with some comfort at this difficult time and a little peace in the future.

My condolences to James' and Justin’s' parents and wider family also.

James, you came into my life in a beautiful and unexpected way - on a mountain in Peru, hiking our way to Machu Picchu. Little did I know that it was the start of a wonderful friendship and that I would one day be dancing at your wedding. You went back to the UK, I went back to Canada, and instead of slowly drifting apart (as is common with friends you meet on vacation), you continued to reach out and connect.

You taught me so much about making connections with people, especially that age is just a number and doesn’t apply to friendships. My kids laughed about me having a friend their age, but then they met you and suddenly you were their friend too - connecting with them and initiating plans to see them. We had never known anyone quite like you before - you were so friendly, thoughtful and funny, and you had a truly ageless soul.

Your love for Justin was beautiful and your devotion to your family and his family was so evident. They are all in my thoughts and prayers - I offer my deepest condolences to them.

Thank you for being my friend James. You will be missed so much.

Our deepest and most heartfelt sympathy to Magherita, Adrian and Justin and all who loved James. We are thinking of you all and praying for your strength at this most difficult of times. With love from Sheila and Brian Benbow xxx

Margherita, Adrian and Justin ~ I hope that in this time of darkness, you will find glimmers of light as you remember the many special times you had with James. I met him on the Inca Trail in Peru and over the course of just a few days, we developed a great friendship that endured time and distance. I admired his curiosity about the world and the fearless, quiet and gentle way that he explored it. I will miss his sense of humor and his easy smile. I wish for you peace as you learn to maneuver this world without him. My heart is broken but I am privileged to have called him a friend.

Malcolm & Alison

James, the world is just a bit darker, a light has gone out, a light that shined so brightly. It's been an honor to know you and the joy you brought to those around you. Your passing leaves a hole that cannot be filled, but you will be remembered with great love and fondness.

It's hard to think you are no longer with us. We shall miss your smile, your laughter, your love for those around you, and especially the funny stories Rachel used to tell of your adventures together.

Although you are gone, you still live on in our hearts and of all those who knew you.

We will miss you and yet we will remember you always and will smile each time we think of you.

Sending our love and sincere condolences to Margherita, Adrian, Justin and all the family in Canada.

Krys and Ian Bickley

James, we remember the day you were born and the happiness you brought to Margherita and Adrian. As young parents ourselves to Tom and Amelia, we had many shared experiences over the years enjoying your vitality and interesting conversations. Aged 16 years old, you and Tom flew to Paris for the day, how adventurous. For Tom you were like a younger brother, both of you studied in Nottingham and enjoyed travelling.

I know how proud your mum and dad were when you started working for Deloitte culminating in your successful move to Calgary.

It was a privilege to attend your wedding in July 2023 to Justin. It was a wonderful day! Your happiness was palpable and seeing you made us marvel at the young man you had become.

God bless you James and may the Lord grant ‘Eternal rest unto you, and let perpetual light shine upon you.

May you rest in peace. Amen’ .

Margherita & Adrian, our dear friends you are very much in our thoughts and prayers. We feel your loss deeply. We hope you find comfort from your many happy memories, may they sustain you in the days and weeks ahead. Take comfort from your time with your family in Calgary but please know we are here for you.

To Justin and your family our sincerest condolences to you all.

There are lots of special people amongst us, sure we are all unique after all, but now and then there is just that one person that is different in a remarkable way - and that was you. Work is work and life is life but with you it was intertwined. The first time I spotted you at work you had your Springbok rugby jersey on and I was drawn to you without you even knowing how home sick I was at that time. We had an authentic conversation and the artificial boundary between work and personal life was joyfully crossed. Then I was lucky enough to start working directly with you and after two years I started feeling more connected to my (not so) new office and happy again at work. You were always so upbeat and friendly, and ever so posh and of course I can go on to say how dependable and reliable you were but by far the best thing you were, was genuine. I don't think we ever had a work-only conversation, and it was the highlight of my day to hear about all your trips and travels and newly discovered things you just had to share. And I am so glad I got to hear about your recent trip to South Africa. I will miss hearing "heyyyyyy" and "see ya" with that calm smile on your face and light-heartedness in your voice and of course that accent but mostly I will just miss your presence. You made things so relatable, and you were so approachable. I will always think of you when I drink my Yorkshire tea and see a WestJet airplane. I wish last week wasn't so rushed and that you know how much I valued and loved you and how many people at work including me you have left distraught. I am sorry this was your path, but I hope you and your family know what an impact you had on others.

To James' parents - we spoke of you often and you raised a remarkable person. James was almost a decade younger than me and I can write a whole list of things I learnt from him. I will put these things to work.

To Justin - James was always beaming when we spoke of you, he was so excited and happy with your new house and life together.

You are all in my thoughts and prayers and I am so sorry for what you are going through. I will never forget James and I am so thankful our paths crossed <3

James I only got to know you recently but as someone who like me grew up in Solihull and worked at Deloitte in Birmingham before making the move over to Canada we had a lot in common. You were always full of energy and humour and were so passionate about your husband, friends and family and your travelling adventures and future plans. I am heartbroken to think that you have left us at such a young age when you had so much ahead of you but I know that you got the absolute most out of your life and were such a positive light to so many.

Sending my thoughts and prayers to your husband, family and friends at this sad time.

Rob M

James, you were a truly unique soul who lived life to the fullest. As someone who always wore his heart on his sleeve and could keep a car full of people (on the way to the mountains!) laughing for hours, your bright personality and friendship will be so missed.

My most sincere condolences to Margherita, Adrian, Justin and all of James' extended family. He was a positive force in the lives of so many.

Dan Luton

I will truly miss you James. You spread so much positivity at workplace. Always the go to person for so many random things. Our chats and discussions about your small weekend getaways would always amaze me. It was so much easy with having you around. A true gentleman, a great co-woker and a beloved colleague. You will always be missed.

Sending my deepest condolences to your family at this tough and difficult time. You will remain in our hearts forever!!

I will miss you James. Our hikes, apres hike appies and a cold beer or glass of wine…some wonderful memories of enjoying the outdoors, good food, great conversation and discussing the best new Costco deals. ;) I will always cherish our times and appreciated you taking this old lady out of her comfort zone on a few of our treks.

Sending all my love to your family at this incredibly difficult time.

James, you grew up with our children and we were proud to think of you as a nephew. You were so bright and quick witted, your sense of adventure left us breathless, your light has gone out too soon.

We send our deepest condolences to our dear friends Margherita and Adrian, to Justin and to James’s Canadian family.

Olive and David Kendrick

I am so sorry for your irreplaceable loss. James was kind, loving and always cheerful. He would always have a smile on his face no matter the situation. I have only worked with James for 8 months and he has impacted my life in such a short time. James and I would connect on Indian culture/food. He would always talk about how he was loved by his in-laws especially his mother-in-law. James will be truly missed not just for the work he did but for the amazing human that he was. I feel fortunate to have met James and hear about all the amazing things he did outside of work including the crazy hikes he often told me about. I wish I had some time to thank you for being so approachable, kind and respectful at all times.

I pray the family gets the strength to bear this huge loss.