Ottawa Valley mourns sudden loss of Jamie Bramburger

Jamie Bramburger holds a copy of his book 'Sudden Impact' in March 2024. (Dylan Dyson/CTV News Ottawa)

The city of Pembroke and the Ottawa Valley community are mourning the sudden loss of community leader Jamie Bramburger.

On Tuesday evening, Algonquin College announced that Bramburger, who was the Interim Dean at the Pembroke Waterfront Campus, had passed suddenly on March 11.

“This news comes as a devastating shock, leaving all who knew Jamie filled with grief and sorrow,” wrote Claude Brulé, President of Algonquin College, in an online post.

“On behalf of the entire Algonquin College community, I extend my deepest condolences to Jamie’s family, our colleagues at the Pembroke Campus, and everyone in our extended College community who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him. His deep passion for Algonquin College and his beloved hometown of Pembroke was evident in everything he did. Jamie was a dedicated leader, a cherished colleague, and a tireless advocate for education and community. His loss will be deeply felt by many.”

Classes at the Pembroke Campus have been cancelled for March 12, resuming March 13. The college says counselling and support services will be available for students and employees. Flags will also be lowered to half mast.

“Jamie’s dedication to education, community service, and leadership has touched countless lives throughout Renfrew County and beyond,” said a statement from the Renfrew and Area Administrators’ Group.

“Jamie’s loss is not only felt within the walls of Algonquin College, but across the Ottawa Valley, where he was known as a compassionate and committed leader. His vision and tireless work to build stronger, more inclusive communities will be remembered as a testament to his character.”

Outside of the college, Bramburger was dedicated to his community of Pembroke and had a passion for local hockey.

He was a passionate broadcaster on community television and served as the play-by-play voice for the Pembroke Lumber Kings.

Bramburger was also a published author, documenting the history and stories that made the team and the Ottawa Valley unique.

“[Bramburger] helped redevelop Pembroke’s waterfront in 2000, shaping one of the city’s most cherished spaces. He also co-founded the Jason Blaine Charity Concert and Golf Tournament, which has raised over $1 million for local organizations,” wrote the City of Pembroke on social media.

“Jamie’s commitment to community service was evident in his work with the Upper Ottawa Valley Physician Recruitment Committee, Chamber of Commerce, and Pembroke Economic Development Advisory Committee.”

Most notably, Bramburger was proud to be know as a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, son, and friend.