Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Brian Grieger Obituary
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Brian Grieger
Sponsored by people who loved Brian.
Robert Muzzy
October 27, 2024
Brian was a delight as a riding buddy an co-worker. I have many fond memories of the fun we had together!
Paula Brynen
October 25, 2024
Brian was a dear friend in high school. It was in the early 1970´s when people with curly hair wore it "natural". He had the largest "fro" in our class if not Los Angeles. It was reddish brown and looked good. However, his kindness and warmth outshone his enormous hair.
Paula Perelman Brynen
September 1, 2021
I know I´m exceedingly late in contributing to Brian´s memorial as it has been 13 years since he died. I learned of his passing at the 40th reunion for Birmingham High. We were close friends in high school but lost touch after graduation. Brian was kind, creative and sensitive. I remember preparing headdress feathers for the new Birmingham Braves marching band uniforms and drawing up the formations for Friday night football games with him.
Outside of the band, Brian and I had a meaningful friendship in 11th and 12th grades. I don´t recall why or when the friendship faded but I am sorry it did.
During the 2020 quarantine I created a mobile about time, reflecting on how amorphous yet significant it is - from being the backbone in music as well as the only evidence of change and growth. I also did a lot of cleaning out old papers and photos.
In the middle of working on the Time art piece, I found this drawing from Brian. I don´t remember when he did it or why I saved it for 48 years. But it was as if he reached out to contribute to the artwork. I included a copy of the image in the piece and have thought of him often since finishing it.
I am delighted to read that he was happily married, a champion of dogs, and that his career grew out of his love for cycling. He was a great guy in high school and a remarkable man thereafter.
Mark Nadell
May 15, 2014
Well, talk about a true posthumous post...I had heard about Brian's passing soon after the event, but never actually found this page. Today, for some reason, I was telling a friend about him, and accidentally came across this website, read the entries, and feel compelled to add, even though it's 6 years after the fact.
Brian was my teenage idol, my mentor in two important aspects of my life (one of which I didn't realize was that important until I was much older). We attended Birmingham High School together. Brian was a year older, and as has been stated here, an amazing clarinetist and sax player. I was just a young member of the band, having been a pianist all my life but switching over to saxophone so I could be part of the bands. Brian taught me a lot about music back then, and then was my "leader" when he was the drum major in his senior year. He was, and remained, a larger-than-life character. It is wonderful to read that he stayed that way even as an adult.
In high school, I was just starting to play around on bicycles, where Brian was an accomplished cyclist. I do remember that he built up my very first "real" bike -- a green Schwinn Supercourse.
I ended up following Brian to Cal State Northridge as a music major, and we had a few classes together there as well. I remember distinctly laughing in the back of the room with him during music theory classes where we both knew more than every other kid in the class, and we had to entertain ourselves during the inevitable remedial discussions.
I switched out of music after a couple of years, and Brian moved to Berkeley and we lost track of each other. After graduating in 1977, I ended up in Berkeley as well working at an outdoor shop, and discovered Brian had ended up at the Missing Link, one of the very first bike store co-ops. We re-connected there, and he ended up building my next two bikes as well! I'd attend repair classes at night, and we'd reminisce about growing up in the Valley, and all the things we had in common.
He moved to Idaho and we lost track. We didn't have the 'net those days to easily reconnect, and I've always been awful at that out-of-sight, out-of-mind mentality with old friends. But I certainly thought of Brian often. Unfortunately, when I heard about his passing, it made me about as sad as I can remember, and realized that I needed to do a better job of keeping connected with old friends.
I will miss his memory. I hope I've captured a little of what made Brian special.
June 13, 2011
I just learned about Brian's passing. He built our 48 spoke touring wheels back in '06. They took us across Asia, China, Tibet and Alaska back to Boise with no problems. "May the winds be at your back" Brian.
Mitch York
December 9, 2010
I first met Brian working with him at Tailwind Bikes. I will never forget him or the funny things he said, Little seizures, RCH (measurement), Coldago, Canyonwale, Scwhinnhumffp, Chicken wing on a string.....
RIP my friend
January 11, 2010
There is not a day that goes by that I do not miss you Brian. I am "being good".
Karen Dreher
James Cooper
January 9, 2010
I just found out about Brian's passing. He taught a community ed class about bicycle repair that I enrolled in. It's crazy, but just in those few weeks I attended class I felt like we were great friends! He had the best stories and the class became much more (for me) about listening to Brian's great, passionate stories than about bicycle repair. My sincere condolences.
Timothy Lynn
December 2, 2009
I am a year late in getting the sad news. Brian was and still is my hero. I rode a bicycle from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic in 2000. I hit a railroad track hard in Pasco WA and struggled across Oregon on a bent rim. I did not have the skill set to re-true the wheel and was getting very discouraged. I randomly ran in to Brian in Eagle one morning. He took me to his house and laced up a new Mavic rear wheel in his garage and gave me some spare spokes and sent me off. The whole time he was buliding my wheel he told me stories about his experiences on long distance rides and gave me encouragement for my ride.
I only met him that once but still remember his big personality and his generosity.
My belated condolences to everyone who knew him.
May God rest his soul.
Judy Meigs Grove
October 5, 2009
I just found Brian's obituary on the internet. What a lovely person he always was.
I knew Brian when we were in Mulholland Junior High and Burmingham High School. He was one of my dearest friends. Thinking about him over the years has given me a lot of joy. He was an excellent artist as well as a musician. I used to watch him ride his bike in the park velodrome in Van Nuys. In Jr. High he loved to argue the Big Bang theory and Creation. We spent a lot of time together and I have always missed him. I lost touch with him after I married.
I found him on the internet and emailed him a couple of times years ago. We talked about our families - I was married with 5 children - and he was devoted to his wife. He told me about his bike shop and about their dogs. I am not surprised to learn he did so much with the passions in his life. He was always a joy to be around.
Natalie, my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Tom Ruth
February 4, 2009
Natalie,
A fond memory I have is when you and Brian met. I remember all of us hanging out at Emerson street in Berkeley. All the crazy times we had there. That was really fun. Take care. Tom Ruth
Vicki Wallace
November 24, 2008
Natalie,
Brian was a good friend even if we didn't spend much time together. I always trusted him with my bikes and wheels. I still have the wheels he built for my road bike several years ago - they are still going strong. I enjoyed his casual business sense but the serious side of his mechanical ability.
He "mechanic-ed" for two of my WC teams and was always a pleasure to work with.
I am truly sorry for your loss. I can't imagine how you're feeling or dealing with the loss of your best friend and husband.
Please take care and comfort in knowing a whole community of friends respected and cared about your husband...he left a legacy.
Jeff Carroll
November 12, 2008
I was sad to learn today that Brian had passed away. I only met him once, about 5 years ago, but I still recount the story to this day.
I had a nasty wreck on my mountain bike, resulting in a very bent frame. All the bike shops in the Boise area told me there was nothing they could do, until one mechanic handed me Brian's phone number and recommended I call him. With bike frame in tow, I felt like I was on some sort of secret mission as I searched for his house/shop. Needless to say, he worked his magic. I stood in his garage and watched as he straightened and realigned my frame, all the while telling me bike stories and explaining to me how I would have been out of luck if my frame wasn't made of good steel. It's no longer my daily ride, but that bike is still in my stable today, and every time I ride it it feels like reconnecting with an old friend.
Brian was truly one of a kind, and the cycling world will not be the same without him.
Dan Kouba
November 7, 2008
I found out today. Still in shock.
My memories are not unlike the other posts.
Met him at Tailwinds, and years later he built my first set of nice wheels.
Called him once from Tahoe after almost going over the bars after hitting a pothole at 50+ and dinging the rim. He fixed it like almost new and didn't charge me for the 3 year old set; I even joked to him as he was putting the finishes touches on "this wouldn't have happened if I had wheels properly built." He gave that smile we've all seen a million times.
Put his wheels in the newspaper's weekly Gear highlight...and he said he'd give me a discount on anything just so long as I kept him out of the paper. He was busy enough. I gave him a smile he's seen too many times: yep, his wheel building expertise was mentioned in the paper two weeks later. That's what he gets for upgrading my spokes to cool black Revolutions and not charging me more than regular 14/15 silver!
He always gave me a "media discount" which I thought was his way of getting free publicity (uh, read last paragraph), but then I found out he gave randmonly made up discounts to anyone and everyone. Got a bike? Get a discount! Obviously he did not do what he did for the money.
Did you all know that each Thursday he closed shop early to take his dogs to the hospital? I believe it was MISTY (someone correct me if I'm wrong).
I'll stop. I just wish Brian didn't have to.
Irish Bhudda
November 6, 2008
Sad news
Bummer! Brian was one of kind. He built wheels like a magician and was the go-to-guy when it came to bikes whether it was making sure the bike fit perfect or fixing a brake that just won’t stop squealing. When it came to building wheels, Brian was the King!
He was a true Renaissance man. It wasn’t unusual to walk up to the shop listening to classical music blaring (he was a professional musician in a previous life) and see Brain working on the neighbors lawn mower with a flat tire. He was always giving - whether it was helping the neighbor kid fix a department store bike, helping someone new to bike racing or taking his dogs in to help cheer someone up that was ill. He was a man of many talents.
If you were willing to listen, you could always learn something new from Brian. I’ll never forget going out to Brian’s to watch him bleed brakes and coming away learning my new favorite coffee was Peets. I will think of Brian in the mornings when I grind coffee.
To Brian’s family (including the dogs), you have my heart felt condolences!
Tempus
November 6, 2008
The cycling world lost a great friend this week when Brian Grieger, at age 53, passed away in his sleep. Brian touched both bike riders and the other people around him in many ways. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Brian’s wife Natalie, and to all his family and friends.
I was lucky enough to meet Brian soon after I took up cycling to lose wait and gain fitness. It took me all of 20 seconds to decide I liked him, because like me, he didn’t really look like a cyclist -- and he immediately began discussing the problems big riders have with equipment. Eventually, I would hear him have similar conversations with many others -- small riders, elderly riders, people with injuries -- or gram conscious cat 1 racer types. He had a way of making every client feel special.
Over the next 14 years, 5 or 6 bikes, and numerous wheels he built for me -- I learned to appreciate him not only for his amazing talents as a mechanic and wheel builder -- but also for his modest and friendly attitude towards anyone on two wheels. The hours I spent with Brian in his shop, just talking and watching him work -- have been the most fascinating and cherished in my cycling experience. In every conversation -- I invariably learned something. The people that came and went, the bikes and parts and tools packed into his garage -- and all those engrossing conversations -- made Brian’s shop feel like a wise and kindly wizard’s lab -- a special place for the lucky ones privileged enough to have spent time there.
He was never boastful, but amazing facts would just seem to sneak out of him. While discussing his work on the Women’s Challenge Race he casually mentioned how the Ukrainian team loved him -- because he spoke Russian. Once when the subject was racing tandems -- he produced a picture showing him and Connie Carpenter winning the California mixed tandem time trial. With his big grin he described the shocked crowd as they rolled up to the starting line with Brian riding in stoker seat rather than the captains -- unheard of at the time. Or when he and a brave tandem buddy hit 70 MPH descending from Hilltop……… or when he did the Bogus Basin Hill Climb in under an hour……… or the time he was in a big fast group coming off a San Francisco hill and hit deep tank tracks embedded in fresh asphalt -- and on and on and on………...
And it wasn’t always about cycling. His interests and intellect were deep. He once told me that one of his greatest joys was watching his dogs run on the beach. I remember him quietly describing one of his beloved Viszlas catching a bird’s scent and freezing into a perfect point in mid air while leaping a sage brush. He loved discussing politics and current events, military history, playing the flute -- of course he was a musician and once composed music. Oh yea, he had also played tailback at Texas A&M, managed one of the biggest bike shops in California, and at one time had 14 personal bikes in perfect riding condition. Brian’s generosity was famous -- he had a box full of parts he donated to young riders. He was constantly loaning equipment or tearing down his own stuff to allow repairs for clients. I once saw him take a derailleur hanger off his own bike to get a client home after a breakdown. It was Brian who didn’t ride for a week until a new one got there.
As our sessions together would finish up, and I would be admiring my new drive train, rebuilt headset or custom wheels, he would always refer to his labor time as “a little bit of love”. Looking back now -- no truer words were ever spoken.
That all ended this week -- as everything always does.
Regrets? Yes, I have one big one when it comes to Brian Grieger. In all the years I knew him, we never did a single ride together. It almost happened numerous times, but he was usually in his mother ship SAG van helping tired riders with repairs, encouragement and cold drinks.
Still, I want to believe that maybe, all his friends can yet have the chance, someday, to join him for that long, beautiful ride in perfect weather. Until then, his memory will always be with us as the miles and time pass beneath our wheels.
Brian Grieger – May he forever R.I.P.
(Ride In Peace)
Ski Bike Junkie
November 6, 2008
The best wheel guy in the world
A while ago while riding with Dug, we were talking about bike mechanics and which ones we like and why. I mentioned that I rarely if ever visit mechanics anymore, except to do things that require special tools, like headset presses, or to true wheels (I could true my own wheels, but why?).
In the course of the conversation, I mentioned that the best wheel guy in the world lives in Boise, ID. Dug of course questioned my superlative. It was probably hyperbole, but I can't imagine how someone could be better at truing and fixing wheels. There are undoubtedly others of equal skill, but they are few.
I found out that the best wheel guy in the world, Brian Grieger, passed away in his sleep last night. He will be missed.
Brian was to bikes what the soup nazi was to soup. He was a true master, but it was also on his terms. Brian worked out of his garage, so you didn't just show up, you made an appointment. At the appointed time, you came with your bike, and then you stood there and listened to Brian complain about how bad your poor maintenance had screwed up the bike. Or, if the repair was easy or not really your fault, he would just tell stories until he was done. You were welcome to watch and ask questions, which is the primary reason I don't take my bikes to the shop very often, if at all. But you didn't leave your bike and come back when it was done, because there wasn't room in the garage for that kind of nonsense. When the job was finished, you paid in cash. Flat rate for labor, regardless of the repair, plus the cost of whatever parts you used.
Before he was a mechanic, Brian used to race bikes with people you've probably heard of. People like Tom Ritchey, Gary Fisher, and Bob Roll. Brian would tell you straight up who was cool and who was a jerk. I learned from Brian that Bob Roll spent his entire stipend for a year on a new Ducati and had to couch surf and dumpster dive during the off season when he couldn't get room and board from the team. I think Bob may have mentioned that in one of his books, but I liked hearing Brian's versions of the stories rather than the sanitized version the publisher approved.
Brian's house was along one of my favorite lunch ride routes. His health had been poor for a while, and I hadn't actually been in the garage for more than a year. But each time I passed, I didn't have anything but kind thoughts. If anyone feels the same way about me when I'm gone, I'll think I lived a pretty good life.
Godspeed, Brian.
Karen Dreher
November 5, 2008
How I remember Brian
I first met Brian during the WC. It was the stage that ended in Stanley and I could not wait to get on my own bike and ride. It was very cold and windy that day and I just started to ride when I was joined by Brian, Rene Wenzel and a couple of other folks. Here was this huge burley guy riding next to me. I sized him up and noticed he had cycling shoes with a touch of pink on the heel. I fell in love instantly. He got a bloody nose during the ride, probably due to the wind and cold but every time he saw me after that during the race, he would hold his hand over his nose, point at me and say loudly "she did it - she did it".
I started taking my bike to him after that and our friendship grew. We would gossip, discuss politics, he'd tell me stories about racing with Connie Carpenter-Phinney and his recollection of the first mtn. bike invented.
On 911 I was scared, confused and did not want to be alone. I rode out to Brian's and spent the day with him. He was angry, scared and confused just as I was. His wisdom, compassion and humor comforted me during what would become history and devastation for all.
The first time he took me to Interbike was the first time I learned how huge a man he is in the cycling world. We had time before the doors opened so he introduced me to my first Crispy Crème doughnut. Bad move Brian!
As we were walking down the corridor of the Venetian towards the convention hall where Interbike was held, he told me to pace myself because I was almost running in excitement for what I was about to see.
Walking past the Trek booth later that day, I noticed a group of gentlemen chatting with one another. They were dressed in suits and one guy in particular had on one with sparkling do dads all up and down his jacket. He excused himself from the group and came up to Brian. It was obvious they were close friends. Brian introduced me to him, it was Gary Fischer. Brian said to me after, "you did not know who that was until I introduced you huh?" It was true, I did not.
Later that same day, Brian and I came across a man wearing a baseball cap. He was all by himself (no entourage) and almost thug-like looking. He and Brian talked as old friends. This was Bob Roll and as we parted, Brian said to me "did you know who that was?' I said no and he lightly smacked me up side the head.
Towards the end of the day we came across another guy who I did know, Greg LeMond. He and Brian hugged and spent the next 15 minutes reminiscing about a ride they did when they were younger and ate a whole pie afterwards that Greg's mother had made.
We would go several more times to Interbike and each one just as special and unique as the first time. We would laugh for years after about all the happenings outside the convention hall, because as you all know, Vegas is a colorful place to be.
Brian was a very meticulous mechanic, never giving a bike back to its owner until it was as perfect as perfect could be. He once told me the biggest joy he got out of his job was making the pain and frustration disappear for his clients who would bring in their broken bikes and bodies to him for a proper fit or fix.
Brian had the biggest and softest heart that is for sure. He and Natalie took their dogs, which to them were their children and family, to local hospitals to cheer up the sick and lonely. Never was there a time coming to Brian's were there weren't several little brown bodies running around playing fetch or sitting at your feet while Dad fixed your bike.
I miss you. I am so grateful for our time together. Be Good.
Karen
Camille Talbot
November 4, 2008
Natalie -
I am so sorry to hear this news. I wish I could take away your pain. Brian's personality, character & smile were things one never forgets. Everytime, after all these years!, whenever I see a Vizla dog, I think of you & Brian, as I remember your love & tenderness for your dogs. You are in my thought & prayers. Stay strong.
Kurt Koontz
November 4, 2008
I met Brian last year during the Ride Idaho event. He made a tremendous positive impact on me. He was a great man. I am so sorry for your loss.
Brian at Glacier Point - probably Oct. 1974
Patrick Kennedy
November 3, 2008
I met Brian in 1969 in high school, at Birmingham , in Van Nuys, CA. We both played clarinet in the band. For two so different people, we hit it off immediately and became the closest of friends.
We shared some amazing moments together growing up. Brian, my first wife Diane, and I were inseparable through high school and college. The camping trips to Sequoia, the car racing at Riverside, the constant goofing around - every minute with Brian was an adventure.
After I remarried in 1978 Brian and I lost touch, and for 18 years I thought of how to reconnect. Then in 1996, through that new fangled thing called the internet I got an email address and finally heard from him again.
Getting back your best friend, even electronically, was one of the biggest joys of my life. We only exchanged emails for a few years, and 2 or 3 phone calls, then lost contact again. He told me about Natalie, his dogs, his bike mechanic stories, but sorrily we never got back together again.
I don't cry very often -almost never actually - but getting Natalie's email about Brian's sudden passing has been a heart breaking moment for me.
I will miss him - the world was an infinitely brighter place with him in it. He won't be forgotten. He was and always will be my best friend.
Bret Stauts
November 3, 2008
Natalie, Brian was a great friend to all he met. I feel lucky I got to spen a lot of time with him at Tailwinds Bike shop where he taught me about bikes. Like he always said (there is no standard in the bike industry).
I had a lot of memorable times riding with Brian. One time we were out riding on his Mikelson Racing tandem and chased down a car on Hill road at 45mph and scared the passenger that had their window open by saying hi in Brian's funny way. Another great time we rode the same tandem on the Davis Double without having a triple crank when we needed it for the hills. We also had to take over the mechanics portable shop to replace a rim strip after we had a blowout at 55mph on the same ride.
There were a lot of great times had by all that were lucky enough to know and get to ride with Brian over his life time.
He will be missed by myself and my family. My prayers are with you Natalie and Scott. Thank you for your friendship and the insight into your 4 legged family.
Mike Holper
November 2, 2008
Natalie
I was so saddened to hear of Brian's passing. You have been in the thoughts and prayers of all of here at Trinity Health.
Nicholas Tigli
November 1, 2008
It's really quite special to see how many lives Brian touched with his many great qualities. He truly was a man of compassion and generosity. On many occasions Brian was happy to give a quick lesson on how to fix some obscure bike problem, then while the dust of mystery still hung in the air he would say something like "it's only a bike dude" or my favorite "notice, at no time did my fingers leave my hands". Leaving me and the guys at the shop with some good insight and a laugh he would then be off to turn some screws and thus make another bike work to it's potential. Thank you for everything Brian.
I am saddened for our loss as a community and very saddened for your loss Natalie. Thank you so much for inviting us into your home and giving us an opportunity to show our appreciation.
Julie Fredrick
November 1, 2008
Brian and Natalie were among the first people I met when I moved to Boise. I met them at a Pet Therapy meeting in 1999. I remember thinking that if all people in Boise were like them things were going to be OK. I got to know Brian and Natalie through the years...both from pet therapy and bike stuff. Brian completely restored my 20 year old bike and joked about what a classic it was (he also gave me a brief history of the company that made my bike - a Japanese Centurion). Brian had a huge heart and I will really miss him. My thoughts are with Natalie right now. Hang in there. Love you.
Brian Newbill
November 1, 2008
Natalie
I am so sorry for your loss, but I wanted to thank you for sharing Brian with the community. We should all learn from his wisdom of spending his time touching so many lives.
After talking to friends at the memorial today, looking through the photos, jerseys, and reading the memories, I spent a few minutes thinking about what my loved ones and friends would share in my memory. I'm thinking I need to spend more time doing things that matter.
Once again thank you for sharing Brian. We are all better for the experience.
Wayne Andersen
November 1, 2008
I will always appreciate Brian and all he has done for me and the cycling community. Smooth riding Brian.
Rene Kaiser-Riley
November 1, 2008
Alas, I rarely ride a bike! I was honored to know another side of Brian; As the gentle giant of man, who would get down on the floor of a hospital with his dog and visit with little children, as the burst of love and smiles that would walk into the room of a patient, and put his dog on their bed and bring them moments of joy.
As the man who stayed by the side of a much loved four legged family member as they faded from this earth. And who is now romping with Szabo and Tuz again! Give them a hug from all of us.
As the mass of curly hair, that he repeatedly grew long on purpose, and then had it cut and donated to Locks of Love to make beautiful wigs for chemo patients.
As the man who with one simple, kind comment to me once, changed my whole outlook on my world at that time. And he continued to provide quiet, behind the scenes support and laughter to me.
I know I will miss him, but am forever in his debt.
Everyone who knew him through St. Luke's Pet Therapy, and our registering agency Therapy Dogs Inc., out of Cheyenne, Wyoming, will miss him dearly.
With the extinguishing of this particular flame, the world is deeply darkened.
Elaine Fraser
November 1, 2008
What a guy. We took a bike maintenance class from him, he was so patient, knowledgeable. Alas it was just easier to go to his garage and hand my bike to him. Amazing insight into why my bike didn't do... or did...
I also took my golf push cart to him because it wouldn't go straight. He fixed it under one condition, I didn't let tell anyone!
Never met anyone like him
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Jim Rudd
November 1, 2008
Every visit with Brian was a breath of rarified air.
Cycling enriched my life and Brian enriched, and heavily influenced my cycling.
My deep condolences to Valerie and family.
Leslie McMichael
October 31, 2008
Natalie,
The very first time I met Brian was back in 1993 at the Women's Challenge Stage Race. After racing in a very hot 101 degree criterium he saved my life by giving me cold water since my own team manager and mechanic had locked me and my team mates out of the team vehicle. At the next years Women's Challenge, I was lucky and honored to have him as our team mechanic. Brian was a genius and he loved what he did. He has been the only mechanic that I've trusted to work on my bicycles over the years.
I always enjoyed going out to his shop in Eagle to hang out while he worked on my bike. Sometimes, he'd even let me bring my Brittany Spaniel to play with your dogs. He loved his dogs, just like I love mine.
I'm going to miss Brian's big smile, that curly hair, those overall's and everything about him. I'm sorry about your loss.
Tim Phillips
October 31, 2008
Brian was a great guy. He helped me get my first set of wheels and got me on the race team back when he worked for Tailwinds. Those wheels were a huge difference in my success that year. I rode those wheels for years, they never got out of true until finally the brakes had worn through the side walls. Since that time I always brought my bikes to Brian, he was the best! I loved to see him at the bike races and he was my source for advice on bikes, parts, exercise, etc. Like many other cyclists in Boise, the other Team Heinous riders, I will really miss Brian.
Calvin Trampleasure
October 31, 2008
As an active bicycle racer in the Berkeley California area during the 1970's, I would occassionally attend the Missing Link's free weekly "how to fix your bike clinics." Brain was the most entertaining teacher and wizard bike guy. I came for the laughs, as well as to learn a few things about my bike.
There's a Martin Luther King, Jr. quote about street sweepers that I'll take the liberty to alter a bit for Brian. "If you fix bikes, fix bikes so well that the hosts of heaven look down and say there lived a great bicycle mechanic."
Once, during a 3-day Berkeley-L.A. training ride in the late '70's, a group of about 12 top Northern Californina (Pringle, LeMond, etc.) racers left our Santa Barbara hotel rooms at dawn. We found playing cards stuck with closepins to each of our bikes. We rode off down the main drag with the sound of the cards hitting our spokes.
In memory of Brian, I may put some clothespins and playing cards on my bike for my ride tommorow.
Robert Tencate
October 31, 2008
About four years ago Brian helped me with a bike issue which even the owner of the shop where I had purchased the bike had no idea how to resolve. I'm still enjoying the fruit of his labor. Although we had never met prior to that day, Brian made me feel like a long-lost friend rather than just another customer.
My condolences to Brian's wife, family, and close friends.
Gary Mountain
October 31, 2008
Brian was a one of a kind gentleman and bike mechanic. He genuinely enjoyed helping people. No matter how big or how small the job, he almost was embarrassed to ask for payment. He enjoyed healthy "debates" about bike technology, and in the end he was usually right. I am sure going to miss waiving to him when riding the Homer Loop!
Craig Sahli
October 31, 2008
I so looked forward to my visits to Brian's garage. Brian would grab the bike out of my hands and ask, "have you touched anything?" It would then go onto the stand and he would fix whatever was broken and find/fix what was going to break next.
It wasn't just a chance to get my bike fixed but a place to gain wisdom, laugh out loud and watch a real artist at work. I had to walk out a number of times when the artist would grab one of his many hammers and beat on my sweat and filth encrusted bike. He would always reassure me that he had a hammer for every job!! And true to his word, my bike was always better for the beating!!
My heart hurts today for Natalie, the dogs, Brian's exteded family and the rest of us who have lost so much in losing this one friend.
Somewhere else.....a bike shop has gained the best mechanic we had to offer and a prince who once walked among men.
Thank-you Brian!!
Be Good!!
Don Tator
October 31, 2008
It was a true joy to talk with Brian. He was so knowledgeable with so many interesting stories. I loved watching him work. He was so smooth and efficient, for me it was like seeing poetry in motion. I will miss him.
dwight tovey
October 31, 2008
He was the mechanic extraordinaire for Treasure Valley bicyclists. For the last few years Brian ran a bike shop (Brian's Pro Bike) in his garage on the outskirts of Eagle. His house was on a backroad with no advertising or any indication that there was a shop there. If you didn't know where you were going, you probably wouldn't be able to find the place. Yet every time I went out there I would see at least two other bicyclists having their bikes worked on. Brian's advertising was entirely by word-of-mouth, and because of Brian's skills, the technique worked very well.
Brian didn't just fix your bike. If something had broken on your bike, instead of just replacing the part he would look into why it broke in the first place. Brian knew how a bike was supposed to work, regardless of design, and was willing to help you understand what the problem was and make recommendation on how to fix it. He wouldn't try to sell you the latest high-zoot ultra-lightweight gizmo when the basic off-the-shelf version (or even your own home-made version) would do the job (unless of course you really wanted that high-zoot thing).
Brian was a truely honest man. Even though he did custom work, he didn't overcharge for it. My son and I used to joke with Brian that he only knew one price. For a long time whenever we went out to Brian's to have some work done, when we asked him how much we owed, the response always seemed to be "Oh.... 20 bucks".
Brian will truely be missed.
Colby Dees
October 31, 2008
I couple of years ago I sustained serious injuries from a crash at the end of a road race. Brian was one who remained calm in my support, as well as provided comforted for my wife. On behalf of My family, Dianna, Zane, Saxton, Chase and myself, we offer our thoughts and prayers to Natalie, Scott as well as other family members at this time of grieving. Brian will be greatly missed, as he touch the lives of many.
Bob Muzzy
October 31, 2008
Brian and I worked together at Velo Sport and The Missing Link bike shops in Berkeley over the course of several years. We also trained and raced together, including an epic road trip to the track nationals in Seattle in '79. He was a great co-worker and friend. I loved his humor and musicality.
Dave Knotts
October 31, 2008
Brian was a friend and mentor to me. He was always generous with his time and mechanical skill. I enjoyed our wide ranging conversations as much as I benefitted from his work on my bikes and advice on racing and riding. A wonderfully bright, upbeat and talented guy. I'll miss him.
Andy Bopp
October 31, 2008
Brian was a true artist, in every sense! Watching him work on bikes was always a joy and he did it with a wry smile. He always made room to get that last minute fix in, and would open the garage door to us even when he was to busy. Brian was a true treasure to Boise cycling and will be missed by many!
Mark Brendan Lyons
October 31, 2008
When I first moved to Boise two years ago, I went on a group ride and asked the question: Who is the best bike mechanic in the valley? I was stunned to hear everyone in chorus say "Brian Grieger."
I looked Brian up, made an appt to see him and was floored at his depth and breath of his knowledge about everything plus he had a passion to fix bicycles!
I knew that from his down to earth persona, wit, Birkenstocks year-round and Boise State Radio playing on his shop radio that he was man for me.
His passing is a huge loss and will be dearly missed. My condolences go out to his wife and family.
Drew Kirk
October 31, 2008
Brian was the "Bike Oracle". He came to my rescue seconds before a time trial, when my crank arm fell off in the parking lot warming up. He solved the issue and gave me a vote of confidence that it was safe to ride. For some reason, I didn't doubt him at all. He built my single speed and was the best bike mechanic ever. He seldom charged me anything so I always paid him what I thought it was worth, of which I felt was never enough for the quality of work you were getting. He had a huge heart and it was always a comfort lining up for a crit knowing he was there if anything went wrong with your bike, he would always take care of it, or figure out a way. He was one of those persons in life that when you walked away, you were better off, with some new knowledge, or a thought about something you had discussed. It was always a learning experience in one way or another to be around him. We will miss him.
Jeff Larsen
October 31, 2008
Brian was a great supporter of the MS-150 charity ride. He will be dearly missed.
cliff weisgerber
October 31, 2008
I met Brian right after he got to Idaho. My favorite time riding with him was a full moon, night ride up freeway and down Hulls. I was new to mtbing and had no lights - I skied under full moons w/o lights and thought nothing of this. Needless to say, after a few crashes in Hulls, I was walking. Brian came up, sat on my back wheel with his 30W NightSun and lit the way for both of us. Believe me, one does not use the brakes on a descent when Brian is 1 inch off one's rear wheel. That was my fastest time down Hulls, ever ;)
My favorite Brian quote (when someone, obviously not a "cool" cyclist, would venture into the shop): "At least he's part of the solution as opposed to being part of the problem."
Hail to the Chief, we will miss him.
Cliff Weisgerber
Liza Rachetto
October 31, 2008
thanks for the wonderful contributions to our community, your sense of humor, passion for cycling and inspiration. God Bless.
Tom Jensen
October 31, 2008
I will miss Brian, as will many. What an example for the rest of us, in terms of his friendship, caring, giving. There will be a hole now left in the cycling community of southwest Idaho. Long live Brian in our hearts and minds! -TJ
Barbara Kreisle
October 31, 2008
Brian will be greatly missed. My thoughts are with you Natalie and with all those who will miss Brian.
Rich Brown
October 31, 2008
Brian was a very special person, a big brother to me. I have great memories of Brian and I watching as each of our pack of pups mauled and played with one another in his field. Brian was as true friend as I have ever had. I enjoyed and looked forward to conversations, over coffe, while watching him build wheels. Watching him build wheels was akin to watching a painter with a blank canvs. Brian will always be missed and remembered. Thank you for all of the great coffee and puppy play days. I hope that my life touches as many people as your has. As my brother would say anytime I left his shop, "be good!"
Kurt Holzer
October 31, 2008
Brian was to me and many others in the cycling community a mentor and friend. His wry humor and breadth of knowledge about cycling, and almost everything else under the sun, made time with him a highlight.
Whether it came watching him fix my bike, build a wheel or as he gave another day to support the bike racers by volunteering in a wheel car or running a wheel pit, I feel lucky for having spent time laughing with him.
Showing 1 - 53 of 53 results
Make a Donation
in Brian Grieger's name
Memorial Events
for Brian Grieger
How to support Brian's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Brian Grieger's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
