Alex's Memory Book

Name:
nickie ages
Email:
kgs@magma.ca
Date:
Monday October 01, 2007 14:26:08 GMT
Comments:
We send our condolences and wish you to have no more grief.
Name:
Tom Gandesbery
Email:
tmgan@pacbell.net
Date:
Thursday September 27, 2007 05:29:52 GMT
Comments:
I met Alex when riding with the GP cyclists in the mid 1990s. I was amazed when seeing him out in the hills or riding the annual Century - definitely the oldest rider by about a decade! Also I lived around the corner from him for a number of years. I saw him doing loops past my house on Lakeshore and chugging up the street with groceries lashed to the funkiest little home-grown folding bike. He was an inspiration to me and many others and will be greatly missed.
Name:
Chris Morfas
Email:
cmorfas@yahoo.com
Date:
Tuesday September 25, 2007 23:38:07 GMT
Comments:
Dave Z and Family,

I was so sorry to hear of Alex's passing. Your father was a man of great-but-gentle determination and persistence who paved the way for later bike advocates-- and with such humor and panache! He will be missed but never, ever forgotten.

All the best,
Chris Morfas
Sacramento, CA
Name:
Colleen Crane
Email:
cmscrane@aol.com
Date:
Sunday September 16, 2007 15:22:25 GMT
Comments:
I first met Alex back in 1990 on a BART train on the way to a ride in Fremont. I ended up riding back to Oakland with him and his companion that day and from there we bacame regular bike buddies. He showed me the roads of the Bay Area and how to ride a century and I shared my growing interest in racing, riding with fast groups and training tips. The cycling community is deeply indebted to Alex for all he has done for us. His persistent and tenacious advocacy has given us a vital voice in regional transportation issues. It was an honor to know him. He was and will continue to be an inspiration to us all.
Name:
David C. Hale
Email:
dhale26328@aol.com
Date:
Saturday September 15, 2007 18:15:33 GMT
Comments:
Alex leaves a big void. He is a unique individual with so much energy and enthusiasm. I remember Alex as a man of the highest integrity.
Name:
Linda Walls
Email:
lindaglennlee@yahoo.com
Date:
Saturday September 15, 2007 00:12:04 GMT
Comments:
I learned about the importance of cycling cadence from Alex on my 1st Grizzly Peak Century, long ago when riders carried our own lunches. For a later GPC, Alex taught me how to build a large fruit salads (in layers) that would delight hundreds of GPC riders the next day. He was a wonderful fellow, & one of a kind!
Name:
Frank Ehrhardt
Email:
carole@douglascamp.com
Date:
Tuesday September 11, 2007 17:24:39 GMT
Comments:
After working with Alex for many years at the Oakland Planning Department, my lasting memory is of Alex and his dedication toward improving the rights of cyclists in Oakland and the Bay Area. Everybody was amazed with his folding bicycle and at first people thought it was a novelty toy, but Alex made great practical use of the bike and inspired others to use a folding bike. Alex will be missed by all those who knew him.
Name:
Patrick Leaper
Email:
p_leaper@yahoo.com
Date:
Tuesday September 11, 2007 00:10:14 GMT
Comments:
Hi Dave, Ron and family.
Alex will be remembered as long as the many folks who knew and loved him live. His wonderful legacy of family and friends, gathered along his extensive path, will inspire many and some who he never met him, but who heard of his incredible spirit. I will forever remember those bright eyes and his energetic mind, full of questions and ideas.
Name:
Tony Miksak and Joselyn Bartlett
Email:
jbart@mcn.org
Date:
Monday September 03, 2007 23:04:28 GMT
Comments:
We were very sorry to hear of Alex's passing. We knew Alex through playing chamber music with him at many CMNC workshops. Alex had the most remarkable way of making us feel like we were having special, almost secret conversations with him. He was a good friend and fellow musician.

We remember one day when Alex showed up at our door in Caspar in full bicycle regalia. He was on a serious cycling tour through our neck of the woods. We were struck by his energy and self deprecating sense of humor.

Ron and David: What an incredible job of preserving Alex's later life on this website. Thank you very much.
Name:
Tom Mikkelsen
Email:
TMIKKphoto@aol.com
Date:
Friday August 31, 2007 21:45:43 GMT
Comments:
I first met Alex while I was the Chairman of the San Francisco Bay Trail Project. He came to our early planning meetings and started out by giving me a dose of grief about "not enough planning for bicycles". To his surprise I agreed and asked him to suggest members to represent the cycling community or our steering committee. This was how Erv Besser and Bill Bliss came to join our board. I kept my cycling a secret from Alex because I really enjoyed his riffs about the short sitedness of our transportation agencies, local governments and people in cars.
Name:
Carol Levine
Email:
clevine@wilbursmith.com
Date:
Friday August 24, 2007 17:45:27 GMT
Comments:
I had the pleasure of working with Alex for REBAC; helping him publish the newsletter and the website.

It was quite a struggle between his MAC way and my PC way, but we made it happen.

Alex was (and is) an inspiration to us all. Without his dogged determination, bicyclists would still be nothing. The Bay Area and even the country has benefitted from knowing him and for his hard work. He will be missed.
Name:
Shawn Mehaffey
Email:
spmehaffey@yahoo.com
Date:
Thursday August 23, 2007 03:36:02 GMT
Comments:
I remember Alex on a Duro-led Kings Ridge ride. That was one tough ride (80 miles?) and Alex pretty much kept up with the pack - amazing! How an 80-year old man could keep up with us is beyond my comprehension.
Name:
Stan Lee
Email:
islandboystan@yahoo.com
Date:
Tuesday August 21, 2007 04:06:26 GMT
Comments:
I think of you often when I reflect back on those good old days of 100 mile rides and riding almost together at the Davis Double. You were one hell of a rider 'til the end.
Name:
Deby Aguero
Email:
debyaguero@gmail.com
Date:
Tuesday August 21, 2007 01:00:52 GMT
Comments:
I was also blessed in the summer of 02 when I joined the GPC bike club and he was the first person I met.He came up to me and introduced himself.We immediately clicked. He was so friendly, charismatic, and full of life.I did my first century with Alex in August 2002, tour of Napa Valley. He was so proud of me! We did two more long rides with Laura Mack and other riders. I will never forget my mentor, confidant, guide, teacher, trainer and buddy Alex! On one evening event a guy asked Alex how come he was always surrounded by pretty women, his answer: “I ride with them!” Thank you Alex for teaching me how to train, ride and believe in myself!
My love to all the family which I have been very fortunate to meet.
Name:
Carole Bremer
Email:
clbremer@juno.com
Date:
Monday August 20, 2007 22:08:20 GMT
Comments:
I have such fond memories of Alex dating back to the late 60's. Alex was the best friend of a dear friend of mine so our families often spent time together. I remember a wonderful spring day high in the sky in a glider with Alex as pilot. No, not a bike - a glider! Ah, what fun we had. I can't think of Alex without thinking of his lovely boyish smile. What a guy. I'm so sorry that I lost touch with him and was not aware of his accident. Ron and Dave, I'm sure that you were of tremendous comfort to him. Alex was so proud of you both. May he be at peace.
Name:
Tina Klugman
Email:
tinaklugman@yahoo.com
Date:
Sunday August 19, 2007 02:49:03 GMT
Comments:
I met Alex about seven years ago for the first time. He and my mother were second cousins, both refugees from Germany. I remember being struck with what a lively, funny, fun-loving, charming character he was.
I am honored to be related, though distantly, to his incredibly dedicated, kind, loving sons Ron and Dave.

May his memory be a blessing.
Name:
Ruth Herz
Email:
ruthkherz@aol.com
Date:
Saturday August 18, 2007 20:03:45 GMT
Comments:
I cared so much and regret not being able to visit anymore due to recent health problems. Alex,over the years, you are always in my heart; as a great friend and cousin. Love, The Herz Family.
Name:
Tony Le
Email:
tony@mulanlab.com
Date:
Saturday August 18, 2007 16:33:26 GMT
Comments:
We recently journeyed around the Bay with our bikes, on BART, over the new Benicia bridge bike path, on ferry, and then on CalTrain. It would not have been possible without the work of Alex. We are deeply saddened of the passing of Alex and we appreciate of his pioneering and dedicating advocacy work. A man ahead of his time!

Jean Gemmill and Tony Le
Name:
Michael Alexander
Email:
malexander@pobox.com
Date:
Saturday August 18, 2007 16:09:43 GMT
Comments:
I began racing when I was about 50. Alex would then have been 69. One of my first events was the Pinole Team Time Trial. A team was two riders, and we Old Farts were assigned to categories set by combining our ages. A pair of 45 year olds would race in the 90+ category, while a 55 year old and a 58 year old would race in the 110+ category, the most senior age group. Excited, I figured that Alex and whomever his partner was would be at least one team we could beat. Instead, Mr. Crafty teamed up with a 35 year old Category 1 champion who Alex drafted the length of the demanding out-and-back course. They beat us by a couple of minutes and I got a life lesson in strategic thinking.
Name:
Michael J. Cassidy, M.C.P.
Email:
w6uab@arrl.net
Date:
Friday August 17, 2007 03:19:09 GMT
Comments:
I've known Alex since 1971, when I first went to work for the City of Oakland. "Alex Zuckerperson", as a faux-nameplate termed him, was always most supportive and helpful to me as a city planner in the poverty program (not the more-prestigious City Planning Department). In addition, we lived about a mile apart for many years, so we frequently saw one another in the Lakeshore neighborhood — and of course, Alex was usually on his bike! He'll be sorely missed, not just for what he did, but for what he WAS. I'm going to miss him greatly. --Mike Cassidy
Name:
else von schopp
Email:
danishdame@hotmail.com
Date:
Thursday August 16, 2007 22:26:49 GMT
Comments:
The main thing to me about the whole world of bicycling is the people who take part in it...all this stuff about different seats, bike pedals and parts...does not mean a thing to me....I met Alex on top of MT. Diablo some years ago, he congratulated me on winning in my age group, and we had a great conversation,I will always treasure his wisdom and good sense of humor. ...Else Von schopp
Name:
Michael Vecchio
Email:
mjvecchio@yahoo.com
Date:
Thursday August 16, 2007 20:21:43 GMT
Comments:
I remember Alex from the late 70's when the EBBC was developing. Though I was never involved much in the EBBC, I believe fully in the message of their vision to pursue, strength to achieve it, and tenacity to persevere. That is what I brought to my jobs in the public sector every day. He will be missed sorely but I also strongly believe that there are an incredible number of individuals to whom he has already passed the torch, or already had one of their own, and will continue moving down the road. What that means is that I am deeply saddened but will not stop looking to the future.
Name:
kristy venstrom
Email:
kavatl@yahoo.com
Date:
Thursday August 16, 2007 04:18:54 GMT
Comments:
Alex asked me to join the chamber musician's of northern california board shortly after it was founded. For seven years we planned music workshops, attended monthly board meetings and developed a good friendship. As the organization grew into a well organized institution, Alex dedicated countless hours at his home and office to making it all work. As one of the younger members, I learned a lot watching Alex lead the group with respect, enthusiasm, and support. He gave me an opportunity to meet many friends and feel the satisfaction of seeing all our hard work result in many successfull workshops. You will be missed by us all.
Name:
Alison Gibson
Email:
mediacool@mindspring.com
Date:
Thursday August 16, 2007 01:27:55 GMT
Comments:
What an inspiration! And a charmer! It was my great pleasure to meet Alex, albeit rather further down the road than most of his friends. He was once asked what he liked so much about riding. His answer, with a glint in his eye and a nod to the pretty nurse: "It gets you breathing deeply." Then he added, "It's like you can go anyplace. And I usually did." We were all glad to be along for the ride, if only we could keep up.
Name:
Will Marek
Email:
william.marek@gmail.com
Date:
Wednesday August 15, 2007 22:02:44 GMT
Comments:
I first met Alex on a century ride 19 years ago. He was riding with a younger woman from the V.S. racing team (surprise!). I came up from behind and passed, only to look back and see they had deftly taken my wheel. Alex politly asked if they could draft me for awhile. Durring the next 5 to 10 miles he told me he was 67 years old, and wanted to finish the ride in under 6 1/2 hours. I enjoyed riding with Alex for the following 13 years, both with G.P.C & S.S.D. We even rode the 2nd Sat. ride on a tandem (never before or since have I been given so much advice on how to ride a bike!). Alex will be missed. My sincere condolences to his family.
Name:
Larry Oppenheim
Email:
larryoboe@earthlink.net
Date:
Wednesday August 15, 2007 16:15:44 GMT
Comments:
Although I sadly did not know Alex personally, I have experienced great joy as a CMNC member for over 15 years. I wish to express my sincerest appreciation for Alex's legacy. And I only just learned about his great contributions to the biking community after reading his obituary in the SF Chronicle. He left the world a better place. What greater goal is there to aspire to?
Larry Oppenheim
Name:
John F. Cinatl
Email:
john_cinatl@dot.ca.gov
Date:
Tuesday August 14, 2007 00:16:33 GMT
Comments:
A finer man never existed.

I'll miss you buddy!

Member - CBAC - California Bicycle Advisory Committee
Name:
Laura Thompson
Email:
laurat@abag.ca.gov
Date:
Monday August 13, 2007 17:39:40 GMT
Comments:
Alex was a passionate advocate for completion of the Bay Trail. He used to drop in to check on us whenever he was in the building for a meeting at MTC. I will always remember his smile as well as his calm but persistent advocacy for bicycling.
Name:
Kathy Tate
Email:
bikekat@astound.net
Date:
Sunday August 12, 2007 02:44:36 GMT
Comments:
I always enjoyed working with Alex in the many bicycling organizations. He was an excellent role model for budding bicycling advocates. I enjoyed greeting him as I worked Rock City as he rode up Mt. Diablo for the Devil Mountain Challenge. He was very determined and conquered that mountain as well as he conquered politicians and bureaucrats.
Name:
Barb Joppa
Email:
terbarmarg@gmail.com
Date:
Saturday August 11, 2007 22:35:47 GMT
Comments:
I am very sorry to hear of Alex's passing. He was a joy and inspiration on the bike. I remember long interesting conversations during rides in Marin, Berkeley etc. One time in particular, Alex rode by my house while I was out gardening. He was calling out "You-Can-Do-It-You-Can-Do-It" in rhythm to his riding companion while going up the rather steep hill" Alex will be missed.
Name:
Thomas H. Doctor
Email:
plandoc@comcast.net
Date:
Saturday August 11, 2007 21:32:48 GMT
Comments:
Alex was not only a co-worker in the Oakland Planning Department, he was also a neighbor. On our neighborhood walks, my wife and I often pass his long-time home on Walla Vista Avenue, admire the street trees and remember the tanacious campaign Alex mounted to have them planted.
Name:
Bonnie Goldsmith
Email:
bjgoakland@sbcglobal.net
Date:
Saturday August 11, 2007 19:30:45 GMT
Comments:
An inspiration to all his fellow cyclists! He will be missed but his cycling spirit is alive in all of us cyclists.
Bonnie Goldsmith
GPC
Name:
Lisa Cline
Email:
lisac@astound.net
Date:
Saturday August 11, 2007 18:57:05 GMT
Comments:
It is hard to imagine the world without Alex. I have not been good over the past few years about keeping in touch, but thought of him often - on my bike, listening to music, getting ready for Christmas Eve dinner (which he shared with us for many years), etc. He was a special and unique person who left his mark on his friends and on the world!
Name:
Len Smith
Email:
losmith706@comcast.net
Date:
Saturday August 11, 2007 18:29:01 GMT
Comments:
So many memories over 35 years. Rode 3 Davis Double centuries 1974, 1991, 1993. The first one I rode as if I were 10 years younger than Alex, the last two he was 10 years younger than me. Gave instructions on how to mend a sew-up tire to Alex in a phone booth at a campground north of Alturas. It was a great 35 years.
Name:
Brian and Kara Douglas
Email:
brianandkara@astound.net
Date:
Saturday August 11, 2007 14:58:23 GMT
Comments:
Alex's passing is a huge loss to cyclists everywhere. He was an amazing advocate and athlete. He was instrumental in acheiving many of the rights for cyclists that we now take for granted. He inspired many new, younger riders with his strength and determination. - KD

I will always remember Alex for his charm, humor, competitive spirit, and determination. I am grateful to him for all he has done for cyclists. I'm sorry I never got to hear him play the violin, but his bike riding was also inspirational! - BD
Name:
sam mudie
Email:
hunterbigt@aol.com
Date:
Saturday August 11, 2007 01:01:10 GMT
Comments:
a violinist friend introduced me to "alex" as a fellow violinist playing with the eastern sierra symphony in mammoth lakes. it took me a minute or two to connect with the guy i had lunch with at my third meeting of the CBAC in sacramento. i enjoyed his viloin playing, his cycling advocacy and his lively lunchtime conversation.
Name:
steve mendelson
Email:
steven.mendelson@gmail.com
Date:
Friday August 10, 2007 23:47:24 GMT
Comments:
My reply to Gary's comments:

Funny, I have no memory of the dinner at my place.

I rode the Napa Century with him, and he, I, Bill King and a fourth person rode up Ink Grade, about 4-5 miles, in what was undoubtedly 90F if not hotter, he made it, tho a little faster because Bill pushed him quite a bit. Many dinners at his place, movie nights, introducing me to Sylvia, on my case about my riding technique and style (like to think it has gotten better), drafting anything anytime no matter how slow, irascible but loved.
sem
Name:
Robin
Email:
nandawell@yahoo.com
Date:
Friday August 10, 2007 23:10:57 GMT
Comments:
I rode with Alex when he rode periodically with the Oakland Yellowjackets and he WHOOPED my butt and I was almost 40 years younger than he! Alex had such a wonderful personality. He was so much fun and a great inspiration to me. I will miss him and send my best regards to his family.
Name:
Thomas Xirakis Peterson
Email:
TXIRAKIS2003@YAHOO.COM
Date:
Friday August 10, 2007 23:02:47 GMT
Comments:
Hello I am very sorry for your loss. My father(Pete X Peterson) Would say we are just on another ride and may it never stop...Thomas.
Name:
Daniel Dole
Email:
dandole@sbcglobal.net
Date:
Friday August 10, 2007 22:58:02 GMT
Comments:
Alex was a good friend, an inspiration and an indefatigable advocate for bicycling. In spite of the seriousness of his cause he had boyishness that was ageless and always made me laugh.
He is sorely missed.
Name:
Gary Goodman
Email:
gkgoodmn@pacbell.net
Date:
Friday August 10, 2007 22:53:24 GMT
Comments:
My fond memories of Alex:

Small dinner party at Mendelson's house night before GPC century.

Sierra Century: dinner and beer with 5 or 6 grizzlies at a restaurant the night before, and riding together part way. We started up the Slug Gulch section together. Tough ride.

Del Puerto Canyon loop, very hot and hilly, Alex struggling up the hill without water, refused to stop, refused to take my bottle. Age 82. I had the honor and pleasure of sagging him at about mile 90.

He had a sharp and warm sense of humor. I'm not sure why but he was always the guest of honor or the center of the affair. It was like having a celebrity around. Was it personal charm, or did we just respect an elder? Doesn't matter.
Name:
arman
Email:
alikabok1966@yahoo.com
Date:
Friday August 10, 2007 21:43:17 GMT
Comments:
i want to express my sincere condolence to mr zuckermann's family. i read about his passing in the contra costa times. as a fellow cyclist, i appreciate and truly grateful for all the contributions he had given, not only to bicycling, but the community. take care, alex, thank you very much.
Name:
Claudette Center
Email:
ccenterride@aol.com
Date:
Friday August 10, 2007 20:05:53 GMT
Comments:
My fondest memory of Alex is meeting him at the top of Grizzley Peak Blvd. I was new to cycling and quite tired by the time I had climbed to the top. There was Alex, smiling, bent over on his bike. He greeted me with, "Hello young lady, you are as beautiful as today is!" I was amazed! Not only did I not feel beautiful, I was exhausted! Alex proceed to give a huge come on to my friends Winnie and Gayle, It was clear he had a crush on them! Alex rode with us for a spell, encouraging me to continue the climb. Then, with a sudden burst of energy, Alex took off, shouting, "I'm off to catch those young whippersnappers up ahead!" I watched him ride off...and yes, he did indeed catch up with that group of fast, young mean who had passed us on the hill!

I knew then that I loved Alex....

Alex will live on in my heart and the hearts of so many others.
Name:
Janet Noble
Email:
janetnoble@yahoo.com
Date:
Friday August 10, 2007 13:24:27 GMT
Comments:
About seven years ago, Alex and I were sitting together at a GPC club meeting, and under discussion was the need for a new program chair. Alex strongly encouraged me to volunteer for this position. It felt impossible not to agree, given his spirited insistence!

Recently I had decided that I wanted to get back into the habit of leading club rides and so listed a very social "no drop" ride out to the Critter Cafe for brunch on Sunday August 5th, which was also the day Alex passed away. It was the sort of social club event that Alex would have encouraged me to lead. Thanks, Alex, for all your enthusiasm and encouragement!
Name:
Susan Graubard Archuletta
Email:
sarchule@sonic.net
Date:
Thursday August 09, 2007 20:23:24 GMT
Comments:
I first met Alex in 1963, when I was a UCB music major, and played string quartets with him and his cellist friend Allen. One day, I was in the UCB student infirmary, with a fever. I did not want to miss our next string quartet gathering. So Alex, Allan,and friend concealed their instruments under their overcoats,and we had a great time playing quartets, much to the astonishment of the staff. There was a great spirit of fun, as well as music, that we shared.I moved away from Berkeley, and I never saw Alex again until about 2001 at CMNC. We played quartets again at his house on Walavista. I was sorry to hear about his accident, and his passing, and send both my condolences and fond memories to his family.
Susan Graubard Archuletta
Name:
Margaret England
Email:
margaret.england@comcast.net
Date:
Thursday August 09, 2007 19:07:18 GMT
Comments:
When as a fledgling violinist at the Chico Chamber Music Workshop some 20+ years ago, Alex invited me to play in a Brahms sextet group he was setting up. He asked if I'd ever played the Brahms Sextets before and when I answered in the negative, he said that he felt very "privileged to be able to introduce me to such great musical literature". I never forgot his kindness. Alex was all about inclusion--even for, at the time, the less knowledgeable. Thank-you Alex.

My condolences to Alex's devoted family.
Name:
John Dinwiddie
Email:
letapuma@sbcglobal.net
Date:
Thursday August 09, 2007 01:54:54 GMT
Comments:
I knew Alex almost 40 years ago, and I think that it may
have been Julian White who suggested that we do some reading together, which we did for a very enjoyable year.
I am both sorry to hear of his death and happy to be
reminded of a smart, unpretentious man who was fun to
be with and whose musical tastes were very good.
Name:
Morrie Goldberg
Email:
morrieg@aol.com
Date:
Wednesday August 08, 2007 20:50:09 GMT
Comments:
My late wife, Rheta Goldberg and I had a long musical friendship with Alex, before he founded CMNC and even more after. Rheta had in her brain a living data base of the personal and musical details of all the CMNC players. Once when the computer program put Alex and Dieter Bergman in the same quartet, Rheta told Dieter that she couldn't put them in the same quartet and he said, "Of course, because I think I play better violin than Alex and he thinks that he plays better violin than I".
Name:
Aileen Frankel
Email:
msfrankel009@gmail.com
Date:
Wednesday August 08, 2007 20:49:10 GMT
Comments:
Dear David and Ronald,
Thanks for notifying us. Your father was well-cared for you. With a twinkle in his eye and a spring in his step and a love for classical music, he played in a chamber trio for my parents' 80th & 82nd birthdays (one day apart are my Mom and Dad). Phil Martin and I visited Alex in both the Oakland and Berkeley residences after his accident, and he enjoyed showing us his family portraits on the wall, his bicycling and politic momentos. Wishing that his grandchildren will keep some of those memories. -- Aileen
Name:
§cott Weitz
Email:
Scott@Weitz.net
Date:
Wednesday August 08, 2007 09:43:11 GMT
Comments:
I can recall the time when Alex dropped my house one evening to pick up a Polar heart monitor strap that I sold him for $10. I was only too happy to provide him with it as his enthusiasm for anything cycling related was infectuous. ~§cott
Name:
Alan Forkosh
Email:
aforkosh@mac.com
Date:
Wednesday August 08, 2007 06:23:14 GMT
Comments:
Alex was truly an great man. His energy, both on the bike and in getting things done for bicyclists was inspirational. He was always coming up with new ideas and getting others to follow through with them. He had no hesitation giving you his thoughts and also getting yours. He will be missed.
Name:
Phil Morton
Email:
pmorton@lmi.net
Date:
Wednesday August 08, 2007 06:08:16 GMT
Comments:
A landsman with whom I could talk German. A great role model. And, as my 9 year old daughter described him: Yodadude!
Name:
Laura Mack
Email:
laura@lkmcreativesolutions.com
Date:
Wednesday August 08, 2007 04:45:53 GMT
Comments:
I feel blessed to have known Alex Zuckermann. What an incredible human being. Ron, Dave and families - thank you for being such incredible role models and inspirations to what it means to care for and give to someone you love. My heart is with you as you let him go. I'm so glad he is now at peace. Last year, I took a writing class that required me to write about a person. I chose Alex and I would like to share it with you. It's too long to put here, so I have just uploaded it as a url into cyberspace for those who care to read it. I hope it won't offend anyone, because that is the last thing I would want to do. I loved Alex tremendously and while this news saddens me, I know that he's at peace and his memory will live on forever.

http://lkmcreativesolutions.com/stories/alexzuckermann.htm
Name:
Carla Din
Email:
dindelion@gmail.com
Date:
Wednesday August 08, 2007 03:54:46 GMT
Comments:
Alex was definitely one-of-a-kind and it was an honor knowing him! Multi-faceted, mischievous and talented. And, never shy to give advice! He gave me at least three pointers the first time I met him on a GPC ride in Alameda. I know I was in the good company of many a woman who received his marriage proposals :-) Alex will be sorely missed and remembered with great fondness.

Much love to Ron, Dave and Irma, and thanks for bringing us all together each year to celebrate Alex' birthday!
Name:
Leo Du Bose
Email:
leodubose@sbcglobal.net
Date:
Wednesday August 08, 2007 00:54:09 GMT
Comments:
I'll miss Alex. He was A visionary and a very good cyclist and highly competitive. The first time he saw me ride he said "I can beat you". We had many rides together. Once while during a Century ride in the South Bay, Alex finished at least an half hour before me. When I came in He let me know that he had beat me. Leo Du Bose
Name:
Ajit de Silva
Email:
agdesilva@gmail.com
Date:
Tuesday August 07, 2007 23:32:51 GMT
Comments:
I remember when I first started bicycle riding, I think I met Alex through the GPC. We were riding in Tilden on our way to Spruce and Alex challenged me to a race. I thought, I am stronger than he is, and so off we went. I didn't see him until the last minute when he passed me right before the finish line and I realized I had a lot to learn about cycling and knowing when a guy was smarter than me. And he was smarter but always charming. After I left the club, there were many things I thought about speaking with him about. Actually quite recently, I got a Brooks saddle like his. His saddle looked very uncomfortable to me when I first saw it years ago. I also started violin lessons and somehow I knew he played violin. What I am trying to say is that he made a big impression on me without even trying. Thanks Alex.

Love,

Ajit
Name:
Jennifer Easton
Email:
jae510@hotmail.com
Date:
Tuesday August 07, 2007 23:00:36 GMT
Comments:
I was new to GPC, well at least Alex didn't know me yet, and I gathered until he knew your name you hadn't really been christened a member of the club. We were riding side-by-side down SPDR and this older gentleman, who I didn't know, reached over and put his arm around me and gently rocked me on my bike, just wanting to see "how steady I was". He then rocked my handlebars a bit to double check, and apparently I passed muster. I always enjoyed having Alex as someone I could brag about as a cycling buddy. And when he determined my (then) employment with the Berkeley Symphony, it led to nice discussions about the state of classical music. I've missed him these years on the bike, but still brag of his achievements. Condolences to all, cheers in our fortune for knowing him.
Name:
Charles Nighbor Architect
Email:
cnighbor@pacbell.net
Date:
Tuesday August 07, 2007 22:42:11 GMT
Comments:
I remember trying to pass Alex on my bicycle on his right. DO NOT PASS ON THE RIGTH was his very quick reply. Then touring in Germany later I found out you DO NOT PASS ON THE RIGHT in a automoblie or bicycle. One of the many fond memories I have of Alex from the rides we did with the Grizzy Peak Cyclists.
My Love to Alex
Charles
Name:
Bill Hamilton
Email:
whamilton@mcg.edu
Date:
Tuesday August 07, 2007 21:20:34 GMT
Comments:
Byrn/I will have you guys in our thoughts. I hope everyone is doing well on the coast.
Name:
Robert Raburn
Email:
robertraburn@ebbc.org
Date:
Tuesday August 07, 2007 21:08:20 GMT
Comments:
Alex leaves a tremendous legacy for all bicyclists to follow. He was fast in the saddle and feisty at the conference table. I struggled to hold his wheel in both venues. Many thanks go to Ron and Dave for the kind care and support that you and your families provided Alex these past several years. I will miss his smile of recognition and the twinkle in his eyes during my "advocacy briefing" visits.
Name:
Ralph Page
Email:
page4@llnl.gov
Date:
Tuesday August 07, 2007 20:05:39 GMT
Comments:
One of the German words I learned in Alex' company is <<Ausgespielt.>> Perhaps it is appropriate now...
Name:
Krehe Ritter
Email:
khr2079@sbcglobal.net
Date:
Tuesday August 07, 2007 19:23:53 GMT
Comments:
I remember riding many time with Alex. IN fact, when he was nearly 80 he overtook and passed me on the Club ITT.
Name:
Michael Stein
Email:
mjstein1@comcast.net
Date:
Tuesday August 07, 2007 18:53:40 GMT
Comments:
It is with great sadness I received the news of Alex's passing. My condolences to Ron and Dave and the rest of Alex's family. Alex was always eager to give advice, and sometimes to receive it, and not just cycling related. I am indebted to him for keeping my spirits up when I was pursuing the love of my life. Thanks Alex. You will be with me always.
Name:
Ellen Fletcher
Email:
ef@ellenfletcher.net
Date:
Tuesday August 07, 2007 18:38:31 GMT
Comments:
Alex and I worked on getting policies into the Transportation Control Measures for the California Clean Air Plan on behalf of REBAC (Regional Bicycle Advisory Committee). The day before an MTC committee hearing on the TCMs Alex was in a hospital in Oakland due to injuries sustained in a bicycle accident. I went there to work on the policies with him. His primary policy was to require bike access on any new or modified Bay Area bridges and mine was to require local jurisdictions to establish bicycle advisory committees in order to claim TDA/3 funding.
Alex permitted me to spend the night in his house to make it convenient for me to attend the MTC meeting the next morning. MTC accepted our recommendations.
Name:
Nancy Rude
Email:
mynan@astound.net
Date:
Tuesday August 07, 2007 18:20:11 GMT
Comments:
One of my favorite memories is playing the Brahms G Minor Piano Quartet with Alex. He had such enthusiasm that it bubbled over into our performance at CMNC. He was a very special man - and I will long remember him.
Name:
Claire Goodman
Email:
claire@clairegoodman.com
Date:
Tuesday August 07, 2007 18:08:48 GMT
Comments:
We will miss you, Alex. What a legacy you leave in the Bay Area! Thank you!
Name:
Doug Faunt
Email:
faunt@panix.com
Date:
Tuesday August 07, 2007 17:39:50 GMT
Comments:
Alex was an inspiration and example to a LOT of us in so many ways. I'm so sorry to hear of his death.
My best to his family and friends.
73, doug
Name:
Dick Dreyer
Email:
ddreyer@holmesculley.com
Date:
Tuesday August 07, 2007 17:18:04 GMT
Comments:
Well, I have many fond memories of riding with Alex on Sunday Duro rides, but...my favorite memories of Alex are when he (and I) still rode the Mountain Challenge year after year. Alex always got to the podium for being the oldest to finish and always with a pretty damn respectable time. I can only hope to be able to do the same.
-Dick
Name:
Mark Birnbaum
Email:
mbirnbaum@snader.com
Date:
Tuesday August 07, 2007 15:52:12 GMT
Comments:
Alex;
You were one of a kind. I tremendously enjoyed the rides we did together, and all I learned from you about riding, bicycle advocacy, and life in general. We all owe you a great debt. Thank you for everything.
Name:
Sandy Levensaler
Email:
finesaler@earthlink.net
Date:
Tuesday August 07, 2007 15:49:55 GMT
Comments:
Ron, Dave & Family: I was very sorry to hear of Alex's passing but I also know you had some good times with him during the years he slowed down. Alex was always an inspirition to me both with his bicycle riding and the way he engaged life. He was one of a kind and touched us all.
Name:
Pierre La Plant, Pres GPC 1975, 1976, Century Chair 1975 -79, Club Historian
Email:
PRLMIC@EARTHLINK.NET
Date:
Tuesday August 07, 2007 15:48:11 GMT
Comments:
Too many comments for this space. See GPC e-mail list.
Name:
Jack Loo
Email:
loojacksac@aol.com
Date:
Tuesday August 07, 2007 15:00:07 GMT
Comments:
I have memory of Alex's many visits to Caltrans on his bike when I started work for that agency in 1983. My first big graphic design job was the first eastbay bike map for his organization. It seemed that this project was being slowly kicked along until he lighted the fires under them and Caltrans give me the project to complete. Over the years of my career with Caltrans, I have seen him(or his bike)over at Caltrans visiting us for various reasons that I assumed was bike related and I always appreciated those visit for I knew that he was there as an advocate for riders like me. I have taped to my cube a small color print of Alex limbering up before the big ride to Monterey with the Oakland Yellow Jackets as I was a member of that club from 1999 to 2001 when I moved to Sacramento. I will miss Alex very much as a fellow roadie biker.
Name:
Wofgang Zuckermann
Email:
shakespeareavignon@hotmail.com
Date:
Tuesday August 07, 2007 14:48:30 GMT
Comments:
I got the sad news about Alex, and I was at least pleased that his passing was peaceful and without pain. I tried to access his website but it didn't seem to work from here. In any case, I'd like to say thank you to both of you for your unstinting devotion, which I think is rare in today's world. I will transmit the news to our cousin Eva, who is herself in a home. Please inscribe my name and this message in the memory book.

With all my best wishes and thanks, from Alex's brother Wolfgang
Name:
Lorna Jones
Email:
test@comcast.net
Date:
Tuesday August 07, 2007 14:46:15 GMT
Comments:
So, Alex has ridden his bike off into the sunset. I always think about him telling about his adventure at the Berlin gate check-point entrance, on one of his European jaunts. The guards were intrigued with his teeny-tiny folding bike, so he unfolded it (with a flourish, no doubt) and climbed on to demonstrate how well it worked---and rode off! Bet those guards felt too sheepish to report him. Do you suppose he will flummox the gate-keepers now? I hesitate to give a name to where he is going (we all need to be so politically correct these days) but no doubt he will have something to say, if only to ask for a really fine violin.

Sympathetic thoughts to you both, and to your families.

Fondly, Lorna Jones
Name:
Robert P. Cotton
Email:
rcotton@bart.gov
Date:
Tuesday August 07, 2007 14:45:27 GMT
Comments:
I first met Alex during many century bicycle rides around the Bay Area. I was amazed at his abilities! Some years ago, I thought that I was going to do something very difficult in participating in both the Wine Country Century AND the Grizzly Peak Century, in that they are back to back 100 mile (+) rides. On Saturday, I talked with Alex during the Wine Country Century, and low and behold, there he was on the Grizzly the very next day!! I was so impressed. A good friend of mine has a friend that knows Alex as well. He told me about his travels during World War II, and how he came to know Alex. As part of the younger generation, we cannot imagine what life was like during those times. I am always humbled when I hear what that gereration went through and survived.

I will miss Alex, he was a kind and gentle person, and a talented cyclist.

Sincerely,

Robert P. Cotton
Name:
marsha kirschbaum
Email:
marshak@lmi.net
Date:
Tuesday August 07, 2007 14:33:11 GMT
Comments:
I met Alex through cycling, when Alex was in his late 70s, on a long climb during the Wildflower century. I was so impressed. As I became more involved with the sport, our paths continually criss-crossed. In 2000, my husband rode his first race and only race with me at the Pinole Team Time Trial. Alex, at 80 years, was so happy at that competition; he had beaten us. He came up to my husband and I and thanked us for entering. He said it felt good at his age to race faster than someone else. Howard and I had the distinction of being bested by an 80 year old man and it made me smile and hope that I could be like that at his age.

Marsha Kirschbaum
Name:
Rich Lesnik
Email:
rlesnik1@yahoo.com
Date:
Tuesday August 07, 2007 12:25:37 GMT
Comments:
I'll remember Alex's Sunday morning pancake breakfast rides -- and his energetic riding commentaries. Never a dull moment with Alex! Rest well, friend.
Name:
Rick Baskin
Email:
rjb@rjbaskin.com
Date:
Tuesday August 07, 2007 07:04:57 GMT
Comments:
Unfortunately I did not get to know Alex until after his life altering injury when I became his lawyer. His indomitable spirit touched me and still inspires me. I asked him once how he was able to ride with such intensity. He smiled and said "I have a mystery reserve of energy...when I see the hill I just go for it".
I honor him for his passion, energy and spirit.
Name:
Via Page
Email:
via_page@yahoo.com
Date:
Tuesday August 07, 2007 05:00:42 GMT
Comments:
In 1989, at a friend's suggestion, I called Alex & he gave me a Bike and BART route to commute from Walnut Creek to my job in downtown Oakland. In 1992, I joined Grizzly Peak Cyclists, & rode with Alex & other GPC cyclists, on many a ride, including Alex's training rides on the 3 Bears. In 1996, Alex & I rode bicycles in Italy & France together. He loved the hairpin curves & steep precipices in the Dolomites. I didn't and learned to hitch a ride downhill when I reached the top of the passes.
Alex inspired everyone with his enthusiasm for bicycling and for making it available to everyone. Ride on, my friend, ride on.
Name:
Toshi Takeuchi
Email:
ttoshi@gmail.com
Date:
Tuesday August 07, 2007 04:53:02 GMT
Comments:
Dear friends,

I didn't realize it until today, but I met Alex in the summer of 1992? at Humboldt chamber music camp and really enjoyed playing violin with him. He was a bright and spirited man, and I remember him fondly. I am glad to now be associated with many of his other friends in the Grizzly Peak Cyclists.

With warm memories,
Toshi Takeuchi
Name:
Ed Cullen
Email:
edcullen@earthlink.net
Date:
Tuesday August 07, 2007 03:27:24 GMT
Comments:
I will hear Alex's maxims for the rest of my life. I am privileged to have known him. My sincere condolences to Ron and David.
Name:
BB Borowitz
Email:
bbwitz@sonic.net
Date:
Tuesday August 07, 2007 03:10:07 GMT
Comments:
Alex was one of a kind. I will always remember his teaching me the art of bicycling and many fun times together during our GPC years. He created, among many other things, the bicycling ZEST scale, which counted speed relative to age. Alex was a zesty guy and he will be sorely missed.
Name:
Sylvia Paull
Email:
whoisylvia@aol.com
Date:
Tuesday August 07, 2007 03:09:16 GMT
Comments:
Goodbye, Alex, I will miss you and your indomitable spirit, which went with you everywhere and will remain on Earth for generations to come. You brought us together in cycling, music, and social activism.
Name:
Hans Roenau
Email:
HRoenau@AOL.com
Date:
Tuesday August 07, 2007 02:35:35 GMT
Comments:
Alex was a true inspiration to all. He will be missed by everyone who had the good fortune of knowing him. Alex and I shared our birthday and we ceebrated it together a few times. Those were happy days.
Name:
Ron Zuckermann
Email:
ronzu2@comcast.net
Date:
Monday August 06, 2007 19:33:51 GMT
Comments:
I want to send to big thank you to all of Alex's friends who have been so supportive over the years. Your continued prayers, visits and positive energy made Alex's life, and my life, more meaningful and rich.