Jonny as many of us best knew him, was a warm-hearted human being with an infectious laugh and insatiable passion for all things creative. He was an architect in the truest sense of the word, being infatuated by the subject, he would never sleep until “it was perfect” and selflessly devoted endless hours to helping his clients achieve a greater goal.

Born in Gillespie Kidd & Coia’s Bellshill Hospital, Jon-Marc Creaney’s early years were spent in and out of GKC buildings between Our Lady’s High School and Sacred Heart Church, Cumbernauld, before arriving at the Mac in 1992 to be tutored by professors MacMillan and Metzstein. He was one of the few who studied part time on the BArch and DipArch courses but still maintained his daily employment with North Lanarkshire Council’s Architecture Department.

The GKC link was strengthened by joining Gerry Connolly in 2000. Connolly retired in 2005 leaving Creaney as principal of GCA Architecture & Design. A recent competition win for SELECT and their completed community business centre in Airdrie highlighted the firm’s progression. He spoke fondly of his work with the North Lanarkshire Social Work Department designing several children’s care homes. By working closely with the client and children this resulted in experimental, thought-provoking buildings that negated many of the social problems intrinsic in child-care architecture.

In 2008, he accepted the role of education convenor for the Glasgow Institute of Architects (GIA) and being held in high regard was asked recently to take greater responsibility within the chapter.

Creaney began to feel unwell last Christmas and was diagnosed with cancer in February. He spent the summer undergoing chemotherapy but his verve to live shone through as he openly explained his illness in his blog at http://scarpadog.wordpress.com/.

Recent trips abroad were used not only for recovery but also to investigate and enhance his burgeoning knowledge of all things design. They also allowed him to make full use of his much-loved camera. As an incredible photographer, his photography was beautifully spiritual capturing the stunning misty qualities of Scottish light. His award winning Rock Pool was highly praised by Colin Prior and was shortlisted for the 2009 Viewbook Architects Eye Award.

Sadly, just over a year after I was climbing in the Alps with him, Jonny, aged 40, was unable to overcome the disease and his life was cut short. Less than a week later GCA received a commendation at the GIA Awards for Best Small Practice. His devoted partner, Julie and his brother Stephen were there to accept it.