I was saddened to hear the news of Tavy’s death this morning. I was lucky enough to meet him several times and loved his sense of humour. He and my late husband, Frank Fonseca, were friends from school days and shared some of the privations of the second world war. Though their lives took very different paths they kept in touch until Frank’s death in 2007. Tavy and Mary Jo’s kindness and generosity were always evident whenever we met. Our last meeting with him was at the Old China Hands Reunion in Portland, Oregon. Tavy and Frank were ‘Old Chna Hands’ – a diverse and very talented group of people. Tavy was outstanding in many ways but not least in his friendship. The world is a sadder place for his passing.