I worked for Stu for about 13 years and, whilst we never saw eye to eye personally, he was probably the best Boss I've worked for.
One of his best assets was that he didn't take any crap from any of the other Airport Management. Even if you'd commited the most heanous sin in history, he'd protect you and not permit any outside personal interference. Thereafter he'd take you apart in the office, but that would be the end of the matter.
Gentleman? I don't know about that, but it will take a bloody big pair of feet to fill his shoes.