The Press and Journal (Inverness, Highlands, and Islands)
Was focused on family
Not only were they business partners but the pair were inseparable friends. They spent almost 30 years working together every day and lived in close proximity to one another in Aberdeen.
Building a strong family identity was important to Ranald, and even more so when he became an uncle to Maria and Mimi, then later Sofia, Carlotta and Enzo.
He loved that his sister married an Italian, keeping the heritage of his beloved grandma – Madarda Guisippena Maria Nuvoloniu – alive and well.
Ricky said: “Strength of family meant everything to Ranald, and he wasn’t afraid to speak out at times when needed to pull everyone together.
“He loved socialising with his siblings and their
families and kept in touch with our parents in Aboyne via Facetime when the pandemic made it more difficult.”
Described as “one of the lucky ones”, Ranald knew what he loved and he spent his life doing it.
Whether it was bagging Munros, filming around the world, meeting the stars of the big screen or just working with his dad and brother in the family business, he lived life to the full.
Richard Wood, Ranald’s father, said: “Ranald was more than a cinematographer; he was a visual 3D artist in his own right and his work will be revered by the industry for many years to come.
“TVP will celebrate 40 years in business this year and it’s so sad that Ranald won’t be here to celebrate this with us as he played a major role in its success.
“He also loved Scotland, summiting over 30 mountains last year, including Ben Nevis with his brother.
“He was planning to travel to Mount Everest base camp later this year to see the Himalayas.”
Ranald died suddenly at home in the early hours of January 30.
The post-mortem examination reported that the 44-year-old died due to a type of heart failure.
He is buried next to his beloved grandparents at Portlethen Church.
“We miss him. The sense of loss is huge, and not just for me,” said Ricky.
“One of our best friends, Bruce Ferguson, was diagnosed with cancer last October. Right up until the day Ranald passed, he was hoping for him to recover. He’d talk about that most days.
“Bruce attended Ranald’s funeral but sadly passed away a month ago. It has been a terrible time for all that know them.”
Asked how Ranald would want to be remembered, the response was a line from Braveheart, his favourite film – “Every man dies, not every man truly lives!”