Tim Wong passed from this world on Monday afternoon. I'm posting this here, because Tim was so important and memorable to the biking community.
If you didn't know Tim, you really missed a true Madison character, and someone who you can thank for starting some of the bike advocacy that continues today. Maybe some on this list who remember farther back than me can share some of his early adventures, like the mass, simultaneous flats that a group got at the intersection of John Nolen, Blair, and Willy St. If you think that intersection is bad now, you can thank Tim that it isn't worse. I don't know the whole story, but I know that Tim helped organize a protest that made it at least somewhat safer for bicyclists and pedestrians at a time when almost no one rode a bike for transportation. Tim wrote more letters, showed up at more meetings, and spoke at more city committees than almost anyone I've known. He never owned a car, and was probably the person that first coined the term "death-mobile." Tim was not subtle about his distaste for cars and driving. He could be irritating and alienated some people -- including his allies. But you could never say he didn't speak his mind and stand up for what he believed. Tim was 69, and rode his bike everywhere until a month ago, when he fell (not while riding) and hit his head, leading to complications that ultimately led to his death. If you knew Tim and didn't know he was in the hospital, this may come as a shock. If you didn't know him, you have no idea how far back his advocacy for bicycling goes. He wasn't always easy to work with, but he will be deeply missed. Rest in peace, Tim. Robbie Webber Transportation geek All opinions are my own, and not necessarily those of any group or organization with which I am affiliated. Founding member, Madison Bikes <http://www.madisonbikes.org/> *...where anyone can ride a bicycle conveniently and comfortably to any place year round.* MadisonBikes.org <http://www.madisonbikes.org/> Follow Madison Bikes on Facebook <https://www.facebook.com/groups/MBIIC/>
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