Truly a great loss.
When you look at the photo Flateric posted, he looks like someone you would want as grand father (or father depending how old you feel).
Well this photo really does him justice, he really is like that. I was privileged and fortunate to have spend a few hours with him one day. He showed me his pet projects back then. He was passionate, always funny, very very personable. My colleague told him "I like your tie". So he promptly removed his tie and gave it to him... I will try that with the CEO of Airbus when I get a chance (not).
--Luc