I agree with those above that *Respect* goes not only to the kettle, but to the owner. Tell him you like his grill, ask him where he got it, and show him that you'll respect it and take good care of it. If he's interested in you having it, he'll let you know the terms (and he might just give it to you). If he's not, then you won't be insulting him. Either way, connecting with him in this way will likely mean the kettle will be yours eventually. In the meantime, ask him for some cooking tips and some Weber stories-- I bet he has plenty, even if he hasn't been cooking for a few years.
...and be sure to keep us posted! Good luck!