HAUPPAUGE, NY — Sir James Nicol Walker CBE, joint managing director of Walker’s Shortbread, passed away on Dec. 15 in the Aberdeen Royal Infirmary. He was 80 years old.

Walker joined his family’s bakery as its first salesperson after graduating from Robert Gordon’s College. During his 60-year career, he was responsible for sales and marketing, dedicating his life to building Walker’s Shortbread from a small family bakery to a globally recognized brand.

Beyond his work in the bakery, Walker was known for his warmth and humility and was well-loved in the business and wider community. He enjoyed fishing on the River Spey and playing golf, and he had a keen interest in ornithology and nature.

Walker was also awarded the Royal Warrant from Queen Elizabeth in 2002, earning the title of Commander of the Order of the British Empire.