I would like to echo loonrats sentiments of being one of the lucky many who had the honour of knowing DD. His reputation proceeded him and he commanded respect from all those around him.
I'm not much of one for Helicopters as JR will no doubt be happy to confirm but the industry has indeed suffered a great loss in DD's death.
Outside of the aviation world all I can say is that he was a geat one for a chunk of cheddar, a good red, and having a bloody good laugh to boot about subjects I wouldn't discuss on a public forum. JR, when I think back to 'that summer' my memories are like a real life Benny Hill sketch... All nurses, barmaids and inuendo!... And you two taking the p*ss remorselessly out of the Cabair coloured seat covers of my old BX... Got the 3 of us to the pub and back well enough though!
My sincere condolences to the family, my thoughts are with you all.
Sleep well David.