A keen hunt follower died after a collision with a cyclist as he walked in a country lane on his way to see the Belvoir Hunt.
Family and former work colleagues yesterday paid tribute to Richard Winters, who was known as Dick, who was injured as he joined a meet of the hunt in Hose Lane, Long Clawson.
The 82-year-old was taken to hospital, but died from his injuries.
Mr Winters, who lived with his wife Jo in Melton, worked for solicitors Oldham and Marsh and Son for about 50 years until he retired in 1995.
During his time at the company, he was the Melton area's Superintendent of Weddings and performed hundreds of civil ceremonies at the firm's offices at the White House, in High Street.
His daughter Joanne Mackenzie-Winters said: "As a family we are still in shock.
"We take some consolation from the knowledge that he was out in the countryside enjoying the hunt meet.
"We know he will be missed by many throughout Melton borough and further afield, as he touched so many people's lives and was so well respected in the community."
Mr Winters was an active member and leading officer of the Melton Mowbray Amateur Radio Society and was the vice-president, webmaster, and editor of the Mercury at Royal Signals Amateur Radio Society.
Melton lawyer Peter Marsh said: "I first met Dick when I joined my family firm of solicitors in 1968.
"He was a delightful character with an excellent sense of humour. His knowledge of and law and conveyancing was second-to-none. He'd joined the firm when he was about 16 and worked his way up from there.
"He always had time for anyone who needed a hand and his service at the firm lasted for 50 years until he retired in 1995.
"He was incredibly loyal to the firm and was thoroughly respected by all who knew him.
"Dick was a true gentleman in every sense of the word and I learnt an enormous amount from him."
"I can truthfully say that we was one of the finest men I've ever known."
Mr Winters is survived by his wife Jo, sister Shirley, and daughters Joanne and Jeanette.
A spokeswoman for Leicestershire Police said the cyclist, who was uninjured, was travelling towards Hose when the accident happened, 110 yards north east of Highfield Farm, shortly after 9am on Saturday.
Witnesses are asked to contact the police on 101.
There will be a private cremation in January. No flowers by request.
Donations if desired can be made to Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance.
All inquiries to Richard Barnes Funeral Directors on 01664 565311.
