Then this is, as I would positively attest, is no myth.
I last talked with this man and his wife about 5 years ago, so I cannot verify his loss to society. I sincerely hope you are wrong about that aspect.
He was a long standing mermber of AOPA, but as I am unfortunately no longer a member I cannot ask for information as to whether he is currently active or the alternative. He and a few others introduced me to flying and were the epitome of what that organisation stood for originally. I am a product of that era.
The fur lined helmet was a spiritual thing shared by he and the late Bert Skinner plus a few others with open cockpits. I also concur with your observations.
If you are of my vintage and want the experience to chase up, I do remember a DCA chap, (initials Bob J), who did my NVFR test, who I suspect may have had some personal or close contact through a F27 at the time.