ScotRail service from Aberdeen to Glasgow Queen Street derailed at Carmont, Aberdeenshire, on Wednesday, not far from his home in rural Stonehaven.
The family statement, issued through train drivers ' union ASLEF, also paid tribute to the emergency workers who dealt with the tragedy.
It said: " Words cannot describe the utterly devastating effect of Brett’s death on his family and friends. "We have lost a wonderful husband, father, and son in the most awful of circumstances. "Brett was the most decent and loving human being we have ever known and his passing leaves a huge void in all our lives. "We would like to thank the emergency services for their heroic efforts in helping everyone affected by this tragedy and for all the messages of.
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