[image: Click for full size]
It's with a very sad heart that I tell you Rich Merrill died today while riding.
Four of us were coming down from Mary's Peak, when Rich left the road. He was killed instantly.
We don't know what caused the accident. Rich, a skilled and experienced rider, was leading, and the pace was relaxed and moderate. Halfway through an easy left bend, something went very wrong with Rich or his bike, and he simply locked up the rear and went off the road.
Loni, Tim, and I have tried to puzzle out what happened, but I doubt we'll ever really know. We're hoping the investigation may reveal something.
Rich was a good friend of many, and a very generous one, too. He spent countless hours helping me with my house projects, and I was going to help him with his roof this fall. Many of you saw the beautiful slate he laid in my living room, just because he counted me as a friend. As I put my VFR back on the centerstand today, I looked down and saw the burnout that he'd proudly signed with a flourish at the VFRD meet just two weekends ago. He was thrilled to have met so many new friends at the meet, and I know you all will miss him as much as I will.
He had no family close by that I know of, his grown kids live in Alaska. If I find that there is something that we can do, or if there will be services for Rich, I will post it here. For now, let's say a prayer for Rich, and keep him in our thoughts.
I met Rich at the PNW meet two weeks ago, and was struck by what a friendly, likeable, guy he was. I had mentioned that I was interested in RC51's and he offered to let me ride his. I sort of thought: "Is this guy nuts? I don't know if he's even seen me ride." He had even bought it new.
I didn't get to talk to him much during the meet itself, but since he was going back to Albany, and that was in my general direction, I asked if I could ride with him. He said "Sure," and after a few miles we switched off bikes. I got to ride the RC for about 1-1/2 hours of twisties. Incredible machine, its limits were obviously much higher than mine. We had a great time on the road, and I got the impression that he was a much more experienced, and more skilled, rider than myself.
We stopped at the convenience store at Alsea for some food, and at a coffee shop in Albany where he bought me a smoothie (Thanks!) before parting ways. We talked a bit about our families (we both have girls) and other things. I didn't get the impression that he had a great relationship with his ex, but he did love his daughters. That Sunday was certainly one of the highlights of the trip for me.
Anyway, I'm stunned to hear this sad news, but I can at least consider myself fortunate for having met him. Rich was a guy who enjoyed life, and one you could immediately call "Friend".
Adios, compadre. wheel.gif
For those that were with him, take care of yourselves. Very difficult times, I've been there (lost a kayaking buddy while I was sharing a favorite run with him several years ago). Feel glad to have shared the good times, and know that there are more to come. You'll have lots of support among friends.
This sport we enjoy is not a forgiving one. Part of the thrill for me, as I imagine it was for Rich, is getting out there close to the edge, 100% focused on the task, and feeling the synergy between mind, muscle, machine, and tarmac. Be careful out there.
OH No...........I never met Rich but he PM'ed me a few times with kind notes, I loved his photos! I guess when your called to go its your time to go moderate pace or not its time to go! I am getting sad remembering the fallen vfrd members, Rich, Texasmac, Drumjack, and Burmawolf in the last few years. Please ride safe folks.
We have had 3 riders go down here in So. Cal, and luckily nothing more than scrapes and bruises. An Esteemed member like Rich is always tough to get over. RIP Rich.
I never had the chance to meet you, but the kind words from your friends here have carried your spirit to the other side of the country. You will be missed by your friends and motorcycle comrades.
Keith, Please let us know if there is anything we can help with.
So sorry to hear this news. Rich sounded like the kind of guy you'd like to have as a friend. No doubt he will be missed and long remembered for those who knew him.
I was out on a ride today with four other riders, and we had a great day. Unfortunately, it doesn't always turn out that way. It was sad to come home and see this. My prayers are with Rich. sad.gif
sad.gif Its always so sad and shocking to hear things like this, i didnt know him but can tell he was a great guy and it always seems to be the good guys that leave us to soon. Ride In Peace Rich.
wow. not the news any of us likes to hear, especially someone we know. my thoughts go out to his family, and also to the riders that witnessed this tragedy. it something we never hope to witness while we're in a group ride.
peace be with you all.
i guess after meeting rich and the rest of the folks at the PNW get-together it really puts life into perspective. life is short, enjoy all the moments when you can and enjoy everyone's company along the way.
RIP.... Seems to many lately... it's getting to the point where I don't know if I even want to ride anymore. I guess it still happens in cars too but it just seems like to many as of late.
I didn't know Rich, nor did I know TexasMac. But I can tell you that that I witnessed the impact of TMac's presence on our group during the memorial ride this year. While it may continue to be difficult for those that were present with Rich at the time, keep him in your memory and honor him by doing what he obviously loved to do. Our tight community mourns. Prayers to Rich, his family and the riders with him today.