I have known Ron for about forty years, ever since his son Colin and I became friends. I will always remember Ron as someone who was unfailingly kind, generous and deeply devoted to the people he loved.
Ron was not afraid to voice his opinion - perhaps a bit too blunt for some people, but I could tell it always came from a good place and quite often with a bit of sarcastic humour tucked in for good measure.
One of my fondest memories of Ron was in my and Colin’s younger years. If we were on a night out and it was difficult for us to get home afterwards, without fail, we could always rely on Ron Cabs. It was so kind of Ron to drive to pick us up, wherever we were. He didn’t have to do it, but he did - repeatedly. Ron didn’t owe us those lifts - he just cared enough to make sure we got home safely.
I remember once, I was a little worse for wear one night. When Ron dropped me back to my flat, I tried to pay him with handfuls of loose change, mainly with lots of 2p, 5p and 10p coins! Obviously, he didn’t want any money at all from me – but especially not tons of small change!
I think Ron saw the funny side of it afterwards, but I can imagine he was possibly thinking more about what a state I was in. But that’s the thing: Ron showed up. For his family, for his friends, for anyone who needed him. He gave so much of himself, quietly and consistently - even when they were staggering around offering him bags of copper coins.
I will always remember Ron as always being there for his family and friends - he did so much for other people.
Even though Ron is no longer here in the physical world. his memory will live on amongst his family and friends and the love, honesty, humour, stories and generosity he shared will live on in all of us. His memory is a part of our lives now. I know he will be sorely missed, more than any words can say - even by those of us who still owe him a proper taxi fare.
James Wilkinson
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