It was with great sadness that I learnt of the death of Ashok Rabheru and my heartfelt condolences go to his wife and family. Ashok was a wonderful man – very gentle and caring in his manner and a man of great wisdom and very good humour.  I got to know him well as President and Provost of University College, London (2013-2021) as he was not only a distinguished alumnus, but also a great supporter and donor to medical research and to those students that needed financial help to come to UCL and to complete their studies. He was always very attentive to me and to UCL, where his advice was frequently sought, and was always worth listening to and acting upon. He sought nothing in return, giving generously of his time, so it was with very great pleasure that we awarded him an Honorary Fellowship of UCL for his prolonged service to the University in 2022.  There are many other aspects to Ashok’s life and career that led to his very well deserved Knighthood, most particularly his long service as a trustee to The Duke of Edinburgh Award.  We will all miss Ashok dearly, not just for his major achievements, but more for the man he was, the friend he became and the lovely gentle and highly effective person that we so admired. Rest in peace Ashok, my very dear friend.