Flyingmac,
Just because he cancelled the flight doesn't mean he made a bad decision. You may have landed at or above the demonstrated limits lots of times, but maybe his level of experience and currency told him to err on the side of caution. A bright, beautiful day does not necessarily confer safety.
But yet, there is playing it too safe. Having put myself into a position where I was uncomfortable way too many times (with fare paying passengers onboard in many instances) I've come to the conclusion that it is far, far better to explain why you're not going than try to explain to a grieving family member why you did you go - assuming you get the opportunity to.