I too had the fortune of working along Pierre for a few years. He was a great guy all around. Although at the beginning I knew nothing of masonry, plumbing, dry-walling, etc, he was always very patient and friendly to me, and he taught me a great many things while asking to work as hard as he did - which was very hard. But it was not just that he was good with tools - he also had a brilliant mind and you could talk engineering with him as well as ancient history, philosophy, politics, etc. He was also a great chess player among other things. If you've read his books and articles you'll know the sort of outstanding mind he had.
He didn't shy away from revealing his true heart or life experiences, including those that had been tough for him. His openness and friendliness made him a very warm character. For me, he was like a big brother, and I'm forever grateful to have met him. Well, he is in a better place now and he will be assisting us from above, but I will still miss him greatly. To know that in this lifetime I won't be able to see him again is very sad.
Yet at the same time, his departure highlights how much we love him - and how much I love so many people on this forum.
There have been many moments in which I've found myself quoting Pierre or remembering how he liked this or that or did some thing or another, or thinking "what would Pierre do?" particularly in tool-related situations. Did you know for example that he almost invariably wore blue? I made fun of him - 'do you only have blue jumpers in your wardrobe?' Another Pierre classic: When we came up with a solution for a tool-type of job, and it was ready to be tested, he exclaimed: "The moment of Truth!", with his French accent. Or giving names and personalities to his tools - "Mr Clacky" was a screwdriver powertool, for example. Also, the way he loved his doggie and treated it. Every time I look at my current pets, I remember him telling me - one time I rescued a kitten - that 'this is a gift from the Universe'. An example of Pierre's warm wisdom. I mention these details so that those of you who did not know him see that one cherishes these things from a person one loves and admires - and that was indeed the effect he had on people.
Pierre, thank you for everything brother. Until we meet again. In the meantime, you remain in our hearts and we pray for you.