To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Bob 498 Johnson.
George Darryl Doughty
December 3, 2021
Today when I got dressed I grabbed a Butt Lite shirt. Didn´t realize the significance until I saw this email. Eddie still is toying with me. I am so grateful Eddie is somehow still messing with me. Thanks again for all the great fun since 1999. It´s still going!
Damian G. Finch
May 31, 2021
Carrie Hanson
December 3, 2019
I curse Eddie often ...and laugh. During Butt Lite, he put a Pistachio bonus on the other side of White Sands Missile Range when we were coming from the border. ...you know it... sucker bonus. We got stuck at the WSMR gate which was closed because they were performing an exercise with no estimated time to reopen. Fast forward in time. Just recently, my work team was doing an exercise at White Sands Missile Range for which the gates would be closed. I asked them to bring me Pistachios as a nod to Eddie. He got us good on that one!
John Ryti
December 6, 2014
"So what do you think the chances are he will be there?" Those words echoed in y helmet as I set out toward Wooody Creek to meet the esteemed HST on the MN1k. Did I think I'd actually meet him? One could only hope. Sadly my quest ended leaving Alliance Nebraska after seeing Carhenge. Eddie made me see the "world" as something more than just a bunch of stuff going by on the roadside. He taught me life is an adventure if you let it be one. Going someplace on a motorcycle became much more than that after being sucked into Eddies World.
I've waited 5 years to put down how I felt about the man but I like everyone else he met loved him. He welcomed everyone evenly and openly. If you needed it and he had it to spare, it was yours. He never asked anything in return, he was that guy.
And every once in a while he visits me in my slumber to have a conversation or just chuckle like he always did.
I miss the man even though after I moved away from Minnesota I saw him less he would still call when he was in California and we would hang out.
Godspeed ECJ !!
deb balzer
March 22, 2012
Eddie changed my life and I am profoundly saddened by his loss. He introduced me back in the mid-90's to my first bike, a BMW, of course. He was there to pick it out, he was there to teach me to ride, he was there to teach me. Never has there been a more passionate man about bikes, the Beach Boys and life. He loved encouraging women to ride, not as a passenger of life. I think of him today and I know somewhere he quietly riding the heaven's clouds. Godspeed dear Eddie.
Becky McDonald
March 18, 2012
OMGosh..
I am so sorry to have just learned of the loss of ECJ lll... He and I met back in 1986, in Mpls.. Unfortunately we fell completely out of touch 4 years ago, and only recently I tried to email him..- thank you Mike, for managing his emails..
He tried to teach me to ride; He even let me (gently) spill one of his Ducati bikes. We shared a nice weekend of 'scooter riding' in Duluth, several years ago.
He will be greatly missed without a doubt. He was an inspiration to so many.
I remember Lyle, he was a fun part of knowing ECJ..
I'm so sad and sorry for the loss the motorcycle community will forever have. i feel honored and blessed to have just a couple memories of such a wonderful person.
Becky McDonald ( Mpls., MN)
December 31, 2009
Eddie, the world is not the same anymore. While we only met a couple of times at LD events, I enjoyed our interactions and learned from you wisdom and experience. My condloences to your family and a thank you to them for sharing you with all of us. God speed and start working on the Heaven Wing-Lite. We will ride with you again.
Regards,
Bill Crittenden (Texas Critter)
Brett Donahue
December 18, 2009
Eddie, God speed brother, and to your loved ones left behind, may God's peace comfort and surround you. Eddie, had such a wonderful way of making things so simple in his rallys that the riders would over complicate them and create their own troubles. the funniest part is that Eddie could see it coming long before the riders would even get the rally packs... His wonderful sense of adventure and the ability to share it with others was amazing and will give me memories to cherish the rest of my life. I pray that I will be able to see him again in heaven, just not too soon, in my case. God Bless you Lisa and all friends and family left behind!
Tracy Collins
December 16, 2009
All i can say is thank you for all the great times. like the time you told me yep you can make it their. big grin on your face! god speed
Karol Patzer
December 15, 2009
It's impossible to recount all the memories of a memorable guy! Met Eddie when I moved to the TC in 1991. the memory that "jumps" out at me was during the 1995 iron butt rally. Riding along in the middle of the night, I noticed a bike on the side of the road.after slowing down to make sure there wasn't a rider in trouble, I saw Eddie doing jumping jacks :) Met him at a rest area later and he said he was trying to wake up. He led me to a bonus, and then we parted ways. I was looking thru my pics of the numerous IBRs, and found several pictures of Eddie and Lyle. Smiled and cried for the memories and the loss of a great man. Condolences to Lisa (you made him happy) and his family and extended family. We'll miss him.
Jeff/Susan Poirier
December 13, 2009
Eddie will be dearly missed in Atlanta and especially from the B2 Chapter out of Douglasville, GA. Thank you for what you did. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family and friends who know that you are on your bike enjoying the ride to heaven. Jeff/Susan Poirier
Steve Bennett
December 13, 2009
I'm proud to admit that I consider my memories of Eddie as treasures, and each one has helped me in so many ways.
You will be missed.
MarySue (SuzyQ) Luetschwager
December 12, 2009
Peace be with you on your journey to heaven, Eddie. My prayer is for your loved ones left behind.
I met Eddie back in the 90s when I became involved in long distance riding. My favorite memory of Eddie is while in one of the Iron Butt Rallies in California somewhere north of the checkpoint in Pomona. I was heading north on I-5 and saw a motorcycle on the side at the top of the mountain. I pulled over and it was Eddie. He had ran out of gas. He asked me if he could siphon some gas from my bike and I said OK but you have to do it. He got out a hose, siphoned a bunch of gas out and ran back to his bike while I was putting my stuff back on the tank. I actually did catch back up to him in San Francisco. Later I found that the hose had water in it and I had a heck of a time getting it out of my gas tank! I remember his uh-uh when I told him. Eddie was in both of the Iron Butt Rallies I finished. I was so jealous when he had the job at the AMA Museum! He has led a colorful, exciting and interesting life. One of the greatest things about life is the characters, the unique people that we meet. Eddie was just that and I feel I am the better for knowing him. I hope he felt no pain and I'm sure he will stir things up in Heaven! I'll miss you, Eddie.
MARSHALL GOODMAN
December 12, 2009
EDDIE WILL BE MISSED BY ALL WHO KNEW HIM,,,,HIS GREGARIOUS PRESENCE WAS A ROOM FILLER...HIS HUMOROUS STORIES WOULD KEEP ALL AROUND HIM ON THE EDGE OF THEIR SEATS.. OR ROLLING ON THE FLOOR. YOU NEVER DOUBTED THE STORIES BECAUSE YOU KNEW THEM TO BE TRUE....ONLY EDDIE COULD GET AWAY WITH RIDING A BMW WITH A LICENCE PLATE WHICH SAID " TAG APPLIED FOR"...FOR AS LONG AS I KNEW HIM, WHICH WAS SEVERAL YEARS....DON'T WORRY, HE WON'T NEED PROPER TAGS IN HEAVEN, EITHER....RIDE FAR EDDIE..IT WAS A BLESSING TO HAVE KNOWN YOU AND I LOOK FORWARD TO RIDING WITH YOU AGAIN.
...LISA, YOU AND YOUR FAMILY WILL BE IN MY PRAYERS.
"CHAIWAYMAN" IN CINCINNATI
Ed Badarzynski
December 11, 2009
MaryCatherine and I didn't know Eddie that well but the times we got together were full of smiles and laughter. Working with him on the RFK was always a pleasure. Eddie always had a answer for anything we asked concerning the RFK. He was a true leader on this enormous task. Our thoughts and prayers are with Lisa and Eddie's family at this time.
Mike (IBPete) Langford
December 11, 2009
My meager response can only mimic the words that have already been said.
I first met Eddie at the Jacksonville IronButt Association pizza party in '06. As the crowd thinned, I sat down to chat to this bear of a man. I soon learned that his intimidating presence was just appearance, he was all heart. Being a relative newcomer to the long distance community I was expressing some concern about my ability to ride a long multi-day rally. Eddie offered lots of advice, words of encouragement, and a spot in his upcoming ButtLite rally. It was during that rally that I got to witness Eddie's expertise as a rally master. He truly knew how to make a rally physically and mentally challenging, and fun at the same time.
Every time we would meet afterwards Eddie always treated me as a welcome friend even though we were casual acquaintances with a shared love of motorcycles.
Thanks to him I overcame my fear of the unknown. He will always hold a special place in my heart and I will be forever in his debt.
Godspeed Eddie, I will miss you and never forget you.
Harley Trash
December 11, 2009
Eddie - years ago, I was in the group world record ride in MN. Lost the stator in my Harley and had to return to the hotel before dark. Eddie found me at one last local bonus in MN, told him what happened and couldn't continue after dark and invited me to have dinner with the rally staff. Eddie was just that kind of guy. Always there for you. Now that you are in a better place, save some BBQ for us. See you on the other side my friend.
Love ya,
Gerry and Wynonia Chinetti
December 10, 2009
Eddie managed to combine his love for motorcycling, mid-western common sense, and razor sharp wit into a life filled with big adventures,good times, and great friends. From "stealth tape" on his GS to mandatory briefings with the AMA Eddie was never boring! Our sport has lost a truly unique character. To Eddie's family our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jason Jonas
December 10, 2009
In Missoula just prior to the 03 IBR Eddie asked me if I thought I'd do well. I said, "of course" to which he promptly replied, "well I hope you do well too... right behind me." I reckon he could tell how tense I was at the time and that was his way of loosening me up a bit. I'm thankful for that.
Eddie and I saw each other once maybe twice a year since 2002. He was always honest and forthright with his words and equitable with his decisions. And when the situation called for a little levity, he never disappointed. He will be missed. Godspeed, Eddie.
LD Hack
December 10, 2009
Eddie- As one of your protegee, a member of Team Strange, one who loves long distance motorcycle riding and adventuring, and one who experienced many of your rallies - all I can say is you will be missed in so many ways. One of your own heroes, Danny Laska said, "It's only far if you don't go there." You have provided opportunities for so many of us to go farther than we would have ordinarily gone.
There are people in the world who have a significant effect on others. They become heroes, maybe better termed - great teachers or mentors. You are one of those. It's not just riding a motorcycle far, it's going far, mentally and physically. The end result of going far was overcoming adversity, it was anger (ultimately at one's self), it was a chuckle and laugh (you got/trapped me), it was compassion and fairness. You're a complicated man, a very good man, and because of that, you will be missed.
Jack Savage
December 10, 2009
My deepest condolences to Lisa and Eddie's family. I knew him simply as a good friend, and the loss seems immense.
Bill Andrews
December 10, 2009
There are people out there pushing the envelope on some of the mundane things us mere mortals take for granted. When it came to long distance riding on motorcycles, Eddie James was a pioneer, explorer, and adventurer. He was a friend, a co-worker, and a brother in the wind, where words sometimes never were spoken but whole conversations held. I will miss him, and hold his memory in that special place. R.I.P. brother.
George Barnes
December 10, 2009
Eddie possessed the greats of human gifts: the ability to make people, even complete strangers, smile. I relish the times and stories we shared together. He will truly be missed.
George Wacaser
December 10, 2009
Oh man.....this is just so sad. I met Eddie at some LD event some years ago, and had the pleasure of talking to him and having dinner with him a few times after that. A fun guy, a real gentleman. You'll be missed brotha.
George Wacaser
Kansas City, MO
Rick Gray
December 10, 2009
Eddie never looked right when he wasn't on a bike. One long weekend when he was working in Ohio for the AMA and I was the Board Chair, I asked him what he was going to do for the weekend. He told me that he was riding to Utah. I asked him, "What for?" Eddie said, "To turn around and come back." Ride on Eddie.
Carol "SKERT" Youorski
December 10, 2009
Eddie was my mentor, rally master and one of the greatest tricksters of all time. He dished out the tricks and was recipient of the same. The stories we tell about what Eddie did to us...let us share them now so we can share in the laughter, because there always was laughter around Eddie.
I will miss you my friend.
My heart goes out to Lisa, the love of his life.
April Tucker
December 10, 2009
My cousin Eddie seems to have been a rare gem who touched the lives of every person he came in contact with from motorcycle rallies to online buddies. His charisma and outgoing friendly nature seems to have brightened the lives of so many. I spent a good bit of time on the phone and emailing with him recently and loved his sense of humor and off beat wit, so like our maternal grandfather. When I think of Eddie now, I will feel sadness for the friend and cousin I have lost, but my sadness will turn to smiles when I think of our conversations filled with laughter.
With Deepest Sympathy,
April Tucker & Family
“Some people come into our lives and quickly go.
Some moves our souls to dance.
They awaken us to new understanding with the passing whisper of their wisdom.
Some people make the sky more beautiful to gaze upon.
They stay in our lives for awhile, leave footprints on our hearts and we are never, ever the same.”
-Anonymous
December 10, 2009
GS & RIP, Eddie. Glad our tire tracks crossed a few times. You were a special person, in many ways. You are missed. My sympathies to Lisa and the family.
Barb Gatchell
December 10, 2009
Keith Collins daughter-in-law, Clarissa Gatchell called us with the news of Eddie's passing. It felt like I got punched in the stomach.I knew Fast Eddie back in the 80's & 90's when we were all riding AMA Poker Runs in Minnesota. Eddie was truly LARGER-THAN-LIFE! And everyone loved to hear the lastest tale! I actually rode the South Dakota Iron Butt years ago because of him. Even standing still, he looked like he was going over 100 mph. Ernie & I moved to Hayti, SD & just last week we were describing him to a couple of the locals. He lived life to the fullest. He will be missed by everyone that knew him. Our prayers go out to Lisa and the rest of his "family". Godspeed --
Wayne Koppa
December 10, 2009
Thanks Eddie for introducing me to long distance riding, Arlene, Niobrara, and all the Strangers I hold so dear. Hundreds in the riding community have been inextricably changed. While others make loose talk about doing rides you organized them. We will forever be in your debt.
Gary Magee
December 10, 2009
Eddie James you were a blast to just be around. I only knew you through the Ride For Kids annual training session's but I always wished you would stop in and visit San Diego in your travels so I could get to know you more. I'll always remember you and that "special" box of Krispy Kreme donuts from your TFL's you just loved to NOT share with all of us! Hahaha! Ride long and free my friend, help Mike give all of our kids a ride up there will you?
Carol Parham
December 9, 2009
Eddie, I will always remember you "pushing me sideways" at the RFK end point at the high school. I think you were one of the only people that "got away" with that ;) You were a special guy and you will be truely missed...I know you are now riding those great golden roads in heaven. Lisa, you and Eddies family are in my thoughts and prayers
Allen Dye
December 9, 2009
An incredible person who was made with equal parts of humor, intellect, mischef, fortitude, compassion and love. I'll miss him. I really can't imagine a world without Eddie.
GeorgeDarryl Doughty
December 9, 2009
Condolences is the only word I can say now to Lisa ,family and friends,of Eddie.
Dan Larson
December 9, 2009
I am saddened to hear that we lost Eddie. I haven't known him long, but served under him when he was our ride manager for Ride For Kids. It always amazed me how he could leave the Atlanta area early one day on his 'Wing, and be in Minnesota a day or so later, then, rest a day, and participate in something like the Minnesota 1000. I came to learn more about him, and appreciate what he has done for long distance riding. Eddie will surely be missed. Godspeed, Eddie!
JERRY HART
December 9, 2009
Eddie, you were a true friend and brother. You always made me laugh and think a lot with your whitt and humor. we have rode many miles together and every mile was an adventure. Eddie you taught me about life and how to share more with others. You also taught me that it is the journey not the destination make makes the ride. I'll miss you and we will ride again. Jerry Hart, PBTF "RIDE FOR KIDS"
Rick Snyder
December 9, 2009
Eddie, you were the greatest LD rider and Rallymaster ever. I always come back to the Buttlite's because of you and Adam. You will be greatly missed. I will always cherish your friendship, you made me feel special. Thoughts and prayers to Lisa, family members and all Eddie's friends.
Brian Johnson
December 9, 2009
I know as time goes bye all of our sad feelings will be replaced by smiles as we count our blessings that he touched our lives. Thank You Eddie, Brian J.
December 9, 2009
Dear LIsa, family and friends,May the memories we have in Eddie's life live on in our hearts forever! I met Eddie thru my son Adam. I always marveled at the amazing amout of time and energy they put into The Butt Light, and how much enjoyment they had.
Life is so precious...Peace be with you Eddie James.
Patty Wolkoff, Hudson, Wisconsin
Jim Weatherhead
December 9, 2009
Eddie, I will always cherish being part of the gallery whilst you held court. But I will most remember our two chance meetings in which I had you all to myself. Daytona 2004 as you inspired me to keep pushing through pain and challenge to chase the dream. And then this past fall when our paths crossed at Moon Motors, we talked about the past rally and our shared experiences; I thank you for never holding back in your wonderful gargantuan views of the world. I will always remember and miss you. Peace be the journey, my mentor, my inspiration, forever my friend.
Alise James
December 9, 2009
Lisa, I am so sorry for your loss. Words cannot possible express...
I am honored to have known him.
I first met Eddie, my husband's brother, on a rainy fall day in Des Moines, when we pulled into the driveway and wondered what nut was driving a big yellow BMW in the rain. I now know those were good driving conditions for Eddie.
We were blessed to able to spend close to a week with him when Dad died in 2003. Rev. Eddie parking the clergy parking space at the funeral home...
His neices and nephews thinking he was larger than life. And again, a few more days with him after he hit the deer.
And we were fortunate enough to meet Lisa as well. You sure made him happy!!
There will be a big hole.
Alise James
Mike James
Kelly James
Michael James
December 9, 2009
I did not get to see Eddie as much as I would have liked to I always looked forward to the visit's when I knew he was stopping by, I know he will be greatly missed by everyone.Thought's and prayer's go out to Lisa and family.
Lewis Stephens
December 9, 2009
What a loss. I met Eddie at a IBA event and he made everyone who spoke to him feel like they were someone special. Even the wannabe riders like me. He will be missed by all who knew him. Godspeed Eddie.
December 9, 2009
An iconic Character in the endurance riding community has passed. - MJ
Krista Painter
December 9, 2009
My heart felt sympathies and prayers go out to the family and friends. I am certain he was well-loved and will be greatly missed
Pete Bansen
December 9, 2009
Eddie was a truly one-of-a-kind character and a terrific ambassador and innovator for motorcycling. His friendship and sense of humor made a real impact on everyone who met him and his untimely passing leaves a void in the lives of many, many people. His spirit and presence endures in the lives and adventures of his many friends. Thanks, Eddie - we miss you!
Peter Hefele
December 9, 2009
I commute in Atlanta most every day and have met Eddie several times at functions. May his RIDES be FAR and LONG and filled with adventure. You will be surely missed; but alas you are now riding with Mike. GOD speed you you Brother!
Jack Ferguson
December 9, 2009
Like many others in the LDR Community, I only knew "of" Eddie until a few months back when we received an invitation to join he and Lisa for dinner with Ardys Kellerman, a "grande dame" of the LDR Community. Of course we accepted and enjoyed a thoroughly enjoyable evening with he and Lisa, Ardys, and Bob and Lynda Wooldridge from BMW Atlanta. He could certainly tell a story, as could Bob and Ardys. Being a relative newcomer to this world I could only listen and laugh. Thank you Eddie for being yourself and for your contributions to the sport we love.
Matthew Hogan
December 9, 2009
I'm one of so many people that only knew Eddie on-line. There have been a few people that I have been eagerly wanting to meet. Eddie was at the top of that list. He has long had an impressive reputation as expert rally master, rider, and all-around great guy.
Kevin Braddy
December 9, 2009
Having met Eddie several times during the last 12 years at various LD motorcycle events, he always left me smiling and with a story to tell others about the joy and passion of motorcycling and enjoying life in general. He will be missed by all that knew him.
Dave Hembroff
December 9, 2009
Eddie was, and will continue to be, a huge influence in the motorcycling community. Remarkably smart and a gifted storyteller, Eddie's presence always filled the room. He will be missed.
John P. Stombaugh
December 9, 2009
Karen and I will miss you. God speed!
Andrea Plant
December 9, 2009
What a wonderful ambassador you were to the world of road riding, Rev Eddie. Thanks for the laughs and for sharing your love of motorcycling with so many! Rest in peace . . . Andrea
Joe Zulaski
December 9, 2009
I still cannot believe this. Just had dinner with Eddie a few weeks ago. Every time I shut my eyes I can see his smiling face and hear his voice telling hilarious stories about our rallies.
Goodbye my friend,
Joe Zulaski
Cindy and Mark Nettke
December 9, 2009
May your hearts be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived. He always made me laugh and see the good things in life everytime we worked the Ride for Kids in Atlanta. He will truly be missed by many throughout the motorcycle circuit.
Rick Oswald
December 9, 2009
Please accept my condolences and prayers.
I came to know Eddy in 1993 through motorcycling. He inspired a lot of folks through his various activities and careers to enjoy the open road. His love of motorcyling was contagious to all around him.
He will be greatly missed.
Ride on Eddy with wind in your hair and the open road behind you in the mirrors!
Kevin Merrill
December 9, 2009
Eddie, you were loved by everyone who met you. A larger-than-life personallity that lit up even the darkest of rooms. You are missed, brother. Godspeed.
Bob,Arlene Liska, Eddie Verdigre,NE 2008
Bob Johnson
December 9, 2009
The last 2 days,I have reflected on the memories I have with Eddie, some of the best were sitting around the Two Rivers Saloon, listening to stories that Eddie loved to tell. He certainly had a gift for telling a tale, and making me smile, if not laughing so hard my side hurt.
Truly a unique and many faceted personality.
He will be missed by me for many reasons.
Bob Johnson
Milbank, SD
Jenelle Koch
December 9, 2009
So many memories of Eddie, right now I dont have the words. Just know that I thought of him as great man. when we got our dog 3 years ago, we couldn't think of a name....she has this crazy white hair, the name we came up with was Eddie James, a dear friend of ours who had lots of white hair. Even though our dog is female it is fun to say: go potty Eddie James, go potty. hee hee. Man I loved that guy!
Showing 1 - 59 of 59 results
Funeral services provided by:
H.M. Patterson & Son-Arlington Chapel173 Allen Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30328
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreYou may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read moreThese free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read moreSome basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more