Club History

Club History

The Big Wheels Bike Club

Think Sunshine

Vern Rischard

Vern Rischard was an active member of Big Wheels Bike Club in the early 1970's. He served as Vice President and President. According to the Spoke 'n Word Newsletters of the 70's, he was always sharing Safety Tips and he received many awards for the club's Century Rides.

We get the quote "Think Sunshine" from Vern Rischard. He was known to have a sign on his bike which read: "Blessed are those who go around in circles, for they shall be called Big Wheels" Sounds like a fun guy.

From the Spoke'n Word, The Newsletter of the Big Wheels Bicycle Club, August 2003:

Larry Schlimgen was one of the original riders and founders of the Club in the early 1970's. He was treasurer of the Club for many years and a very active member. He was the first one in the Club to reach the 40,000 mile mark. He helped organize picnics, the banquet, and had a group of Big Wheels bike in a July 4, 1976 parade in Tonawanda.

The first Bagel Ride was held in 2000. Larry died during the night from a heart attack August 23, 1999. He biked the short Sunday ride that day with a group of Big Wheels, stopping for bagels and coffee in the same spot as Bagel Jay's (on Klein near Hopkins).

Larry would help anyone change a flat or fix bike problems. He was a very caring friend. That is why we have the bagel ride in August in his honor and why some people have the turquoise T-shirt that says: "Larry's Ride, Bike with friends, Stop for bagels, Makes the day . . ., PERFECT!"

His wife Shirley, also a very active member, designed the T-Shirt. She also did many of the decorations at our banquets over the years and as well as coordinating desserts for the banquet, Pot Luck activities, and the food at the Vern Rischard ride. Larry is missed by everyone who knew him.

Lawrence J. Schlimgen June 20, 1927-August 23, 1999

President
Pete Somerville

Membership

Jan Gucwa

Jangucwa@yahoo.com