Is it possible for a 71-year-old man to have a role model? I can answer that question with a resounding “yes” because I had such a role model myself until recently. George G. was an elite cyclist as well as an avid swimmer, skilled wood carver, and generous philanthropist. When I went biking with George, I wanted to pedal farther; when we swam in adjacent laps at the community center, I strove to swim faster. I couldn’t begin to match his woodworking skill, but my wife and I made a point of buying some of the products of his labor, including a beautiful cutting board and some sturdy bottle stoppers. Much if not all the money he received from selling his wood creations went to his favorite charities. And speaking of charities, George was undoubtedly one of the top fundraisers for the annual Pelotonia bike ride for cancer research. (He always rode the maximum distance.)

One day in March this year, George fell victim to a freak tragedy. A tree, blown by the wind, fell on his head while he was chopping down another tree, hoping to use it for his woodcarvings. George fought valiantly to make at least a partial recovery from this accident, but on October 26, he succumbed to a respiratory infection. The loss hit me hard. As noted, George was someone who inspired me and who I sought to emulate. He made me want to be a better man. And now, in a stroke of fate that seemed equally cruel and unfair, he was gone.

But a recent event has shown me that George can still be a source of inspiration, can still push me to reach for higher heights. The event was a “Bike for George” ride, and it was organized by his wife, Michelle, for the weekend of November 7-8.  Michelle urged people to “head outside for a ride (or walk) to honor George. Any distance, any location, any time this weekend — all for George.” As an additional measure, she suggested people consider making a donation to one of his favorite charities.

Becky and I didn’t hesitate to join the action. On Sunday, the 8th, we biked out of our driveway on Maxton Place and went about a half mile east, zig-zagging through the buildings that were once part of Harding Hospital. We exited on the south side of the hospital’s campus and then pedaled into Colonial Hills. A few more turns took us to Colonial Hills Elementary School. Leaving our bikes behind, we descended down a staircase of wood and stone to the school’s newly dedicated outdoor learning center. After inspecting this new facility, which features stumps being used for seats and tables, we headed back to Maxton Place.

Later, I made a donation in George’s memory to Pelotonia, using the hashtag #Georgeforgood. Reflecting on the ride my wife and I took, I realized it only covered four miles, but it was invigorating and uplifting. So it was true to George’s spirit.