Sheldon Brown passes away at 63 years of age

I was shocked to read today that Sheldon Brown, a long time inspiration to me, and many other cyclists passed away from a heart attack on Feb. 3. I have been reading Sheldon's website and journal on and off for a good 6-7 years and I can certainley credit his vision of the bike as formative in my own life. Sheldon believed the bicycle wasn't simply for fun and recreation, but could also be used as a positive force for health, the environment, and happier, friendlier communities. Sheldon also had a strong mind, I enjoyed reading his thoughts on religion, politics and the environment; and I know its a tired and overused phrase, but if more people thought like Sheldon Brown the world would be an unequivically better place.

Sheldon had been suffering from Multiple Sclerosis for a number of years, a disease which drastically cut his ability to ride his bikes, not to mention making walking and moving around difficult, and as of late, nearly impossible. But if you read his journal entries you won't get a hint of self-pity or anger; he somehow had the mental strength to take things in stride. I think Sheldon knew that living on this planet doesn't entitle us to anything; I always got a sense from his writing that life is something to be cherished because this is all we have and that we must appreciate it while we are here.

The community has lost a legendary advocate and a great person.