I was close mates with Brian for more than 45 years, first meeting as trainee pilots for PPL shortly after leaving school.
I echo the thoughts posted above regarding his piloting abilities and his outstanding character.
The way he conducted himself over the last couple of years suffering from the disease that finally claimed him was nothing short of amazing. If any comfort can be taken from his passing is that whilst he was clearly very ill, he was jovial, lucid and able to be functional right up to his last few hours.
Typical of Brian, his main concern was for his family and he wanted to donate his remains for medical research to help find cures to help others. He expressly did not want a funeral or memorial service in part because he did not want to bother people.......so so Brian.
I know myself and others are going to miss him terribly, and at some stage in the future I hope we get the opportunity to raise a glass with some friends and colleagues in memory of a fine human being.
Rest peacefully Zac.