|
One of the many reasons I love cycling is the high percentage of exceedingly nice and caring people involved in the sport. Even among this select group, Jim was at the very pinnacle. His unwavering positive attitude, smile, and humor made him one of my favorite ride partners (when I could keep him within sight). He never took himself, or the sport, too seriously, which made him aces in my book. Jim was an inspiration both on and off the bike, and in his honor and memory, I will strive to be more outwardly positive in all my daily interactions. - Vance MacDonald
I am in total shock and disbelief. just last week we were sitting next to him and chatting away about many things. He was talking about his Jamba Juice being too sweet and onto his UCLA and La Grange days of racing.
I have had few moments on the road with Jim over the past two years or so, but eveytime he was always positive and sincere in his approach towards me and many of the club members.
May he rest in peace and all the best to his family and friends.
Be safe and may this kind of incident never happen again. - Armen Hagobian
Jim was my friend and we rode many miles together. Many (not long distance cyclists) asking about "why at 1:00am" and I thought to share few photos of our rides at no-light hours. We rode 24+ events for few years now, and we do ride at dark. (we ride almost in all weather condition too). Jim did what he loved to do with the people he loves to do it. RIP my friend. - Shai Shprung
I can't express my shock and sadness at hearing this news. Jim was a riding companion and a friend. He was also an extraordinary cyclist, and last week on a ride we talked about eating habits and how he stayed in such great shape. He was helpful, outgoing, and seemingly always in a good mood - I'm sure others will agree that the smile in the photo above reflects Jim's default demeanor. He will be sorely missed. - Carl Wurtz
|
Jim was an unendingly happy guy. A pleasure to ride with and talk to on a nice long ride. It's always a tragedy when someone is taken before their time, even more so when they are a truly decent and special person. Sarah and I have talked many times about such a thing happening and I always tell her if it happens to me, don't be sad,know that I died doing what I love most to do. I would liketo think Jim felt the same way. So long, my friend. - Keith Brodsky
Those who knew Jim knew what a nice person he was and how he made people around him happier. I know he did that to me, and now it seems he is gone. - John Hallam
Such a great loss all of us in the cycling community feel. A life cut short is a terrible thing. May he be in a better place. - "Vertical Bob" Eckhoff
I am saddened by our loss. Jim made a cheerful, positive contribution to every ride we shared. He was supportive of everyone on our rides and his good cheer encouraged us all to reach for our best efforts. - Henry Riley
I met Jim and Nicole cycling up 39 and than to Baldy Village...both positive people with the zen for climbing and cycling....true soul mates...that is such a rare thing this day!
Jim and I rode together for part of the ride and he talked about Nicole how special she was and how good of a cyclist she was and I also rode with Nicole a good part of the ride and she talked about how special Jim was and what a good cyclist he was and how they met on a long bike ride and he made her laugh the entire ride...
I lost my sister in a cycling accident and this is so hard to comprehend in some ways, but it is life.... I just wanted to say my heart goes out to Nicole and the Swarzman family.....
- Laura Siebenthal |
