I only met Chris once. It was 2 or 3 years ago on one of the CR rides that Steve Friedes runs from the Jersey side of the George Washington Bridge. I knew him from the list and was pleased to meet him in person. He showed up for the ride sporting green cut-offs and green Chuck Taylors. This was the maiden voyage of his new Atlantis and the outfit was color coordinated with the bike. The dude was marching to his own drummer. I was impressed.
About a mile from our regular coffee stop, Chris had a mechanical failure that we were unable to resolve. We knew that there was a bike shop down the block from the cafe so Chris figured that he would just walk. Chris's bike was rideable you just couldn't pedal it so I told him to get on and I'd push. He politely declined so we all rode along slowly as he walked. Soon we came decent so Chris got on the bike and coasted down the hill. As the hill flattened out I came up along side and started pushing him. Chris seemed amused by the free ride but kept saying things like "you really don't have to do this." When we got to the coffee shop he thanked me profusely. I was happy to be of assistance.
This wasn't exactly like going to war but when people face adversity together there is a certain bonding that occurs. I am very glad that Chris's bike broke down that day... I am saddened by the news of his death.
Jamie Swan - Northport, N.Y.