Byron,
Rather than defame him you have honoured him! As an originator of a few patterns that are well known I'd be very happy with two really important things you have done. They are: You have said where your inspiration has come from, and you have stated the differences between your fly and his original. I don't think anyone can ask for more.

To ask for more is, I believe, against the spirit of fly fishing and fly tying. Even though I am involved in the sport commercially, I always remember that I have been given more than I can give.

Cheers,
A.