Celebration of Life for Paula Erickson Ride
Larry Diffie
Hello GEARs,
Mark your Calendars! We will have a “Celebration of Life/Memorial Ride for Paula Erickson” = April 18th. As many of you know or read about Paula from Kayna’s tribute in our GEARs January 2026 Newsletter.
Paula served GEARs well – as President, on the Board, as a Ride Leader & Beyond. She was a voice of wisdom and she cared about Riding! I remember that she used to lead and provide training Rides for females wanting to do more on a bike and participate in Adventure Riding. And she had a close group of Riding Friends that she would join in on their own adventure Rides, including a jaunt across country.
One thing you may not have known about Paula, was that in some way, shape or form, she become GEARs own “Cinnamon Roll Queen”, in that she would host our annual Cinnamon Roll Rides and open her door whether you were a GEARs Member or not! Ah, the fun times. My 3rd Ride with GEARs, in 2017, was to Paula’s Home and food fest! I had no clue where I was going and I did not know many GEARs Riders, but I sure knew more Riders afterwards, and I wasn't hungry when I left!
This tradition has continued – thanks to Tyler, Garry and Richard, and others hosting this mostly annual event – at the Cross Road Starbucks in Junction City (during Covid times) in conjunction with our Daffodil Ride, at Tyler’s home and even at another local Bakery.
In helping to keep this tradition going, especially in honor of Paula, this Memorial Ride will make a pause at Camas Bakery for Cinnamon Rolls and an opportunity to share words and memories – and maybe help some to make new friends.
More details will be coming, so stay tuned! And watch our Ride Schedule! The Ride will be a “Reverse Franklin Firehouse” route, at 10 to 12 and 12 to 14 mph pace.
If you knew Paula, please join us! Or if you didn’t know Paula, please join us!
Peace,
Larry