RONALD Press was well known in the Mac's Cove community and through the various gun and rifle clubs around the North East district.

A champion shooter in several aspects of the sport Ron gained notoriety in these areas as a great marksman.

He lived the past 22 years at his much loved home in Mac's Cove after retiring from the Australian Air Force in 2001.

He had for many years been known as "The Duke" for his likeness to John Wayne – a nick–name that remained with him for most of his life.

He had no immediate family but had, some 33 years ago, adopted the Rafton family of Queensland having met them through work at the Air Force.

At his funeral last week, Lynne Rafton said: "Ron was one of a kind, he called a spade a spade.

"It was this characteristic that drew us (Gary, Lyn and children) to him 33 years ago when he and Garry worked together in the Airforce.

"Ron was a true friend," Lynne said.

She described their 'family' times with Ron describing the four wheel drive trips in his famous "Oaty" – the Toyota.

"We spent a lot of time camping, water skiing, fishing, playing in dart competitions with lots of good fun times in the Airmen's Mess," Lyn said.

"Ron taught our children, Josh and Chelsea how to "Bottom Bite" cone ice creams and much more."

Lynne said Ron was so happy when he retired to his beloved highlands of Victoria in Mac's Cove and spent many hours working timber into furniture.

For quite a few years Ron also raised much needed money for the Leukaemia Foundation by 'Shaving for a Cure'.

"He had a heart of gold," Lynne said.

From 2007 Ron showed interest in all types of shooting with Alexandra, Woods Point Gun Club, Mansfield and Euroa Clay Target Clubs.

Ron took out grade wins in double/single barrel with 20, 25, 50, 75 and 100 target point scores.

The East Central District Rifle Association took Ron all over the region to the likes of Violet Town, Woods Point, Gobur, The Merton, Glenrowan, Katandra and Bendigo Ranges up until 2019.

Living a solitary life style, Ron did enjoy his Friday nights at the Mansfield RSL where he made more friends, spent some time propped on a bar stool and talking to all who would listen.

ANZAC Days were also a special time for Ron, times when he spent many hours reflecting with his adopted family and when not together, would put in a 'dawn' phone call to his family.

"This year we will remember him," Lynne concluded.

Ron was unfortunate enough to contract cancer and for at least the past two years underwent treatments which he tolerated so well, but knew his time was limited.

Ron passed away quietly in hospital after having a fall at his home.