I first met Ron not long after he became a TV star for his early recovery, with Alan Young, of 1P/Halley and have always marvelled at the quality of his work. He was very innovative and came up with loads of excellent ideas including is own cold camera and comet offset guiding attachment. There is a pretty good summary of Ron and his work along with a photo of Ron with his home-built 16-inch here:
http://mstecker.com/pages/apparbour.htm
His SNe discovery record is testament to his skill and dedication. Ron always regretted replacing that telescope with an “inferior” commercial instrument and mount.
I will miss our regular email exchanges and my annual meeting with Ron and Pat after Winchester when I would discover what new equipment Ron was testing, usually in the living room. Pat was very tolerant.
Another of the BAA astronomy greats gone. Deepest condolences to Pat.