[CR]Chris Beyer

(Example: Production Builders:Tonard)

content-class: urn:content-classes:message
Date: Wed, 21 May 2003 13:56:01 -0400
Thread-Topic: Chris Beyer
Thread-Index: AcMfwj2e4sZfrz9nSi23pnakIwf/eg==
From: "Bingham, Wayne R." <WBINGHAM@imf.org>
To: <classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>
Subject: [CR]Chris Beyer

News of Chris' death saddens me deeply, maybe more so that I would have anticipated. And yet, at the same time, it reinforces the importance of friendships gained through the CR community. In this case, the very origins of that community. As the esteemed Mr. Baylis has pointed out on numerous occasions, the CR community provides a fertile ground for strong bonds among like-minded individuals, but can also opens doors to kindred souls who share passions other than bicycles. Such was the case with Chris, probably my first such experience within this group. I'm not sure exactly how it happened, but both Chris and I almost immediately learned that we had deep-rooted and very similar interests in music. It initiated a very personal relationship, and an interaction of words and deeds that I cherish, and will most certainly miss.

Early on, Chris and I communicated often, but mostly not about bikes. Chris and I talked about music and bands, and often discussed with each other the "roots" of a particular artist, style or sound. We talked about favorite artists and musical influences, and we traded music. I gave Chris compilation discs, sometimes themed. Chris once gave me a complete anthology (5 discs!) of Don Dixon's early band Arrogance, an early favorite we shared. Chris stayed at my home. We drank beer, ate Thai food and listen to music for hours. We had fun and enjoyed each other's company. We were good friends.

After Chris' illness, we talked less often. I don't think I've seen Chris since then, which is unfortunate. I was hoping he would be at the Cirque, and just be his old exuberant self again. I had two discs in an envelope in my bag for him. Stuff I knew he'd like. I kept meaning to ask others about him while at the Cirque, but somehow, maybe deep inside, I didn't really want to know why he wasn't there.

I'll remember Chris for his spirit and enthusiasm. For his wit and his humor, his laugh and that twinkle in his eye. I'll remember him riding in argyle socks and Chuck Taylors. But mostly, I'll remember him as friend and a brother. And I will miss him terribly.

Wayne Bingham
Falls Church VA