Dick had an incredibly rich career, pioneering on so many occasions; aviation really did seem to be his life. Twenty-odd years ago he was one of my gliding instructors, and - like Rocket2 - I've enjoyed Dick's stories, humour and forthright wisdom in the years since. Dick's memory and wit remained sharp to the end, even as his driving skills deteriorated, and he continued to entertain with his reminiscences, talks and informed views on aviation history as well as recent topics. As Gengis writes, Dick was often blunt, and only rarely wrong; but he was also quietly thoughtful and, behind the gruff facade, a kind and gentle soul.
Windrushers have promised to post details of Dick's funeral on the website
www.windrushers.org.uk/news.htm.
Happy soaring, Dick.
Windrusher