The pair had remained friends for 50 years, he said.
Originally from Wainuiomata and a mechanic by trade, Mr Delaney worked for various employers in the region, including Oldfields.
Known for his collection of army vehicles, Mr Delaney was also involved with the National Army Museum in Waiouru, Mr Russell said.
"Gavin had the biggest collection of army vehicles and stuff I've ever seen, he was always going to auctions and buying army stuff."
Sons Paul and Brent Delaney said they were still struggling to come to terms with the loss of their father, whom they described as a generous man, and an avid collector of historic military vehicles.
"He was a nice soul and a very good person who would never let anyone down. He was that sort of guy," Paul Delaney said. "I would be lucky to be half the man he was."
MP and former Carterton Mayor Ron Mark said Mr Delaney had served alongside his partner, Chris Tracey, and was an "amazing guy".
"I really got to know him a while back because of his involvement with military vehicles and his passion for restoring them.
"He was just a bloody decent guy -- just a good man who had a passion and lived his passion."
Mr Delaney was "generous to a fault," Mr Mark said.
"He was always trying to help people, always trying to do something for someone."
Mr Delaney is survived by three sons, a daughter and five grandchildren.
Masterton police traffic Sergeant Chris Megaw said a post mortem would be conducted which would determine whether a medical event or alcohol could have been factors in Sunday's crash.
The Serious Crash Unit were investigating and the death would eventually be referred to the coroner, Mr Megaw said.
