Day 15
MEMORIAL

It grieves my heart to have to do a page today.  Darrell Keefer, one of our riders, passed away in his sleep last night in our hotel in Chickasha.  Our prayers go out to the Keefer family for the loss of a loving son, husband, father, and grandfather.  Darrell was a true friend to me, my staff, the ABB community, and many cyclists everywhere.  His last days were spent doing something he loved with people who respected and loved him.  We dedicate the remainder of this ride to his memory.

Darrell Keefer
21 Jan 1955 - 5 May 2008

The following was the prayer offered by Scott A. at our memorial gathering the evening of his passing.

Dear God, that spirit of life and love that so faithfully animates and informs our creation and all of us...

We pray this hour first for Darrell and his family.

May Darrell rest now in the great arms of peace that life just beyond this life we all share.

And may Karen (and all the rest of Darrell's loving family) be held securely in the web of love that we -- and so many others -- feel for them in this time of unanswerable loss.  May they always remember Darrell's goodness...his simplicity...his strength and purposefulness in life.

And may we, who feel so shocked and saddened this hour, remember how precious and tenuous is the gift of life.  Tomorrow, may we go back to the life that is ours with renewed appreciation for this great treasure that is ours -- life...human life...this thing that is to be lived with such care...with goodness and compassion...and respect and admiration for each person and he unique gifts they bring.

May Darrell and his family remain in our hearts even as we continue this ride and life's journey...which is always so mysterious...so rich...so holy...and so blessed by he persons (like Darrell) we meet along the way.

                                                                                                        Amen
 

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