Celebrating Timeless Dedication: Meet the 80-Year-Olds Still Thriving in the Construction Industry

A Celebration of Dedication
A company that provides bespoke timber frame homes is celebrating the remarkable careers of two exceptional team members who are still going strong in their 80s.
Bernard Buss and Mike Keher have worked together for more than 50 years and have been an integral part of Duns-based Fleming Homes since its foundation in 1986.
Their dedication, experience, and loyalty have been paramount to the company’s success. With no plans to retire, their knowledge, wisdom, and experience continue to benefit both customers and colleagues alike.

Mike Keher's Journey
Mike, 80, started his career in the construction industry in his native Ireland. In the early 1970s, he followed a former colleague to take up a job in Duns.
Reflecting on his early days, he said: “Everyone did everything. As well as sales, I looked after the factory, production, liaised with customers, and helped load and unload the lorries.”
He noted how technological advances have transformed the industry, stating, “Fleming Homes has expanded the products on offer to include high-quality doors, windows, staircases, and plasterboard.”
Bernard Buss's Legacy
With thousands of designs for timber frame houses worldwide, Bernard, now 84, began as a draftsman with the renowned construction company W.H. Colt Son & Co Ltd in Kent. After a stint as head of design with Robert H Hall, he moved to Duns to work with Celtic Homes. Later in the 1970s, he and Mike co-founded Clanwood Components, which eventually became part of Fleming Homes.
“The marketplace has changed a huge amount since I started,” Bernard remarked. He emphasized how timber has become one of the most accepted forms of construction in the domestic market.
Despite embracing technology for emails and construction drawings, he expressed skepticism about design software, stating, “I find they all just slow me down.”
A Commitment to Work
On the topic of retirement, Bernard has no intention of slowing down, saying: “I don’t even think about it. It’s the camaraderie; I like the people I work with.”
Sarah Mathieson, managing director of Fleming Homes, praised the duo: “We are incredibly fortunate to have Mike and Bernard as active members of our team. Their knowledge continues to inspire colleagues and benefit customers.”
She added, “Their presence also highlights the importance of age diversity in the workplace.”