He will be sadly missed by all in the road racing fraternity, but most particularly by his family, and the absence of the 'number 45' will leave a massive void in the paddock and cast a shadow over the forthcoming North West 200 and Isle of Man TT.

BBC: Finnegan tragedy

"John Sheardown remained a very humble man, always willing to stay in the shadow of others, and the people of Windsor remain extremely proud of his diplomatic intervention and career accomplishments, " read a proclamation that declared November 10, 2012, "John Sheardown Day" in the city of Windsor, in Ontario, Canada.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS