Fallen cyclist Ron Mendoza, 43, will be remembered with celebration of life this Friday evening
The memorial will take place on June 30 at 6:30 p.m. at the crash site, Wrightwood/Pulaski in Logan Square and will include a ghost bike installation and a balloon release.
The family and friends of fitness instructor and bike rider Ron Mendoza, 43, who died after a collision with a motorist earlier this month in Logan Square, will celebrate his life this Friday, June 30, at 6:30 p.m. at the crash site, Wrightwood Avenue and Pulaski Road. Other bike community members are also welcome to attend and honor Mendoza.
According to the Chicago Police Department report, on Monday, June 5, around 11:30 p.m., Mendoza was riding west on Wrightwood. The driver was heading south on Pulaski when the two vehicle operators crashed at the intersection. While the motorist told responding officers that Mendoza ran a red, it’s unclear from multiple CPD reports whether this claim is accurate. The cyclist passed away from his injuries on the morning of Wednesday, June 7.
A GoFundMe page was launched by organizer Jacqueline Hines to support Mendoza’s family and has raised over $20,000.
"You brought positivity to everyone you met and saw the best in everyone," donor Shanna Rodriguez said of Mendoza. "Your iconic whistle let everyone know you had arrived. The power of your smile and laugh were always contagious! You will be missed but never forgotten!"
Ghost Bikes Chicago is helping with the installation of the ghost bike, a white-painted cycle which will commemorate Mendoza and remind motorists to drive safely.
The fitness coach's close friend Nick Garcia said the event would also feature a red and white balloon release "and lots of dancing like Ronald would want to do."
"He was full of energy and touched a lot of people's lives," Garcia added. "One of his favorite quotes was, 'This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine.'"
In addition to editing Streetsblog Chicago, John writes about transportation and other topics for additional local publications. A Chicagoan since 1989, he enjoys exploring the city on foot, bike, bus, and 'L' train.
State Sen. Ram Villivalam, (D-8th) and state Rep. Eva-Dina Delgado (D-3rd), as well as Graciela Guzmán, a Democratic senate nominee, addressed the crowd of transit advocates.