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The City of Pembroke is deeply saddened by the unexpected passing of Jamie Bramburger, a dedicated community leader whose passion, generosity, and unwavering commitment to our city touched countless lives.
Jamie was a driving force behind numerous community initiatives, with a legacy spanning education, broadcasting, economic development, and philanthropy. He played a pivotal role in the effort to build Algonquin College’s Waterfront Campus, creating opportunities for generations of students and staff. Through Jamie’s decades of work at Algonquin College, most recently serving as Interim Dean, he ensured that the college remains a pillar of learning and growth for the Ottawa Valley.
His contributions extended far beyond the college. He was instrumental in the redevelopment of Pembroke’s waterfront in 2000, helping to shape one of the city’s most cherished public spaces. He also co-founded the Jason Blaine Charity Concert and Golf Tournament, which has now raised more than $1,000,000 to support local organizations and initiatives.
Jamie’s deep-rooted commitment to community service was evident in the numerous boards and committees he served on, including the Upper Ottawa Valley Physician Recruitment Committee, the Upper Ottawa Valley Chamber of Commerce, and the Pembroke Economic Development Advisory Committee.
Beyond his professional and volunteer work, Jamie was a beloved broadcaster and storyteller. At Cogeco/YourTV, he left an imprint on every production he touched, and through his Algonquin College Speaker Series and In Conversation With, he brought influential guests and diverse perspectives to our community. As the longtime voice of the Pembroke Lumber Kings, his love for hockey and local sports was unmistakable. Jamie was also a published author, sharing his passion for local history and preserving Pembroke’s stories for future generations.
In recognition of his lifetime of contributions, flags at all municipal buildings will be lowered to half-mast, and City Council will honour him with a moment of silence at the March 18th meeting.
Mayor Ron Gervais shared his condolences, "Jamie Bramburger was an extraordinary individual whose dedication to our community knew no bounds. His leadership, passion, and kindness touched so many lives, and his passing leaves a void that will not soon be filled. On behalf of the City of Pembroke, I extend my heartfelt condolences to Jamie’s family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy will continue to inspire us."
Jamie’s impact on our community was immeasurable, and his legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched. Some of the countless colleagues and friends who worked closely with him over the years extended comments to the City, reflecting on his generosity, leadership, and passion.
“Through his words and actions, Jamie’s leadership inspired and connected people. He taught me the value of community and charity and his passion for Lumber Kings hockey was unmatched. For that I am eternally grateful. He will be deeply missed. I’m shocked and saddened by his loss but will remember him fondly for the positive impact he had on the lives of so many including myself,” said Sheldon Keefe, New Jersey Devils head coach and former owner, general manager, and head coach of the Pembroke Lumber Kings.
“Jamie was the best of us. His passion for the community was untouchable, and he championed local TV. For over 35 years he volunteered his time, always professional, always with a smile. From his hundreds of interviews with former Prime Ministers, authors, athletes, plus local municipal election and sports coverage. Jamie loved every minute of it. His impact on community TV could never be measured, many of our programs have his mark left on them and he will never be forgotten. The staff and volunteers at yourtv send our condolences to the Bramburger family, we are going to miss him,” said yourtv Ottawa Valley producer Trevor Riley.
“Jamie Bramburger is someone I've long admired as a true salt of the earth, good man. He has long been a champion of mine and was the first one on board to help launch our hometown charity golf and concert fundraiser in 2013. I'm forever proud and grateful for our work together. The Ottawa Valley has lost a true gem, and I will miss my friend,” said recording artist Jason Blaine.
“During my interview process, Jamie took me on a tour of Pembroke. His love and pride for the City were obvious. As I worked with him, I learned more about how his passion for the Algonquin College campus and the City of Pembroke had helped to transform both. He believed in his community and actively built and supported it, through his volunteerism, his commitment to education, and his passion for mentoring others. He leaves behind an impact that will continue to grow,” said former Dean of Algonquin College Waterfront Campus Keltie Jones.
“I had the pleasure to work with Jamie at the local TV/radio station as well as the United Way. When someone mentions Jamie Bramburger in our community, it is a name that might mean something different to each person. Some will think of the Lumber Kings commentator, to others, a coworker who always had a smile to greet you, to some an educator, and to some, an author. Jamie encompassed all that is good in a person. Non-judgmental, committed to what was close to his heart, and a valued member of any of the many groups or organizations he belonged to. He loved his community and it showed. My deepest sympathies to his family, friends, and to those who were close to this wonderful man. Our communities mourn our loss,” expressed City of Pembroke Councillor and former colleague Patricia Lafreniere.
The City of Pembroke joins the entire community in mourning the loss of a true staple of the Ottawa Valley.
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