In 1964, when I was 15 years old, I had the opportunity to watch Dave race in the National Track Championships at the Kissena Park velodrome on Long Island. He was the quintessential sprinter--short, muscular, powerful. I never forgot him, but I also never saw him again in person. Thenwithin the past year I learned of the Classic Rendezvous list. To my amazement one day I saw a contribution signed "Dave Staub." I e-mailed him to ask if he was the same Dave Staub that I admired in 1964. Well, of course he was. We corresponded a number of times on the subject of Schwinn Paramounts (he was always happy to answer questions to help with my restoration and those of others) and talked about some of the bike racing personalities we both knew (mostly east coast people that I rode with as a teenager). Just a couple of months ago we corresponded about getting together in September when I would have a business trip to Pasadena. I was really looking forward to meeting him again in person (and seeing his bikes that he obviously enjoyed so much)--almost 40 years after the first time I saw him in action. I am saddened that we won't meet, but I'm honored that I had the chance to communicate with him this past year, if only briefly.
Pete Rutledge
Woodbridge, VA
> Dear friends;
>
> Only moments ago I recieved a phone call from one of our listmembers and
> friend of mine with the tragic information that earlier today, esteemed
> listmember Dave Staub was found on the side of the road by a passing
> motorist. Apparently Dave passed away while out riding his bicycle
> earlier today. For those who know Dave from the list or have met him in
> person; you know what an incredable enthusiest and rider Dave was. Like
> our recently departed and equally beloved Chris Beyer, Dave Staub was
> one of those always happy and ever positive individuals; no matter what
> was going on. His contribution to the world of bicycling, which extended
> for his entire life, was tremendous. He was by far one of my favorite
> local listmembers to ride and hang around with. We had a special bond
> which only short riders have with one another. We recently rode a few
> laps on the Disney/Mountford Schwinn 1964 Olympic track tandem on one of
> gatherings here in San Diego. I will miss him deeply. He was just here
> this past Monday to pick up his freshly restored 1964 Masi Special,
> which he bought new. I hjad just given the bike a new life. I dearly
> wish I could have somewhow given him more life; he is one of the most
> deserving persons I have ever met. We were going to ride together this
> comming Sunday. You cannot imagine my sadness right now, as I realize I
> will never be able to ride with him again.
>
> God Bless you, Dave. Rest in Peace.
>
> Brian Baylis
> La Mesa, CA
> This is the most painful submission I will ever have to make to the list
> I'm sure. Truely a more friendly and sincere man never lived.