Tom Reiser Death, Obituary – My reaction to the news is one of complete and utter bewilderment and despondency. The news that Tom Reiser Sr. had passed away didn’t come to my attention until just a few moments ago. In addition to being an accomplished engine builder and the Hill climbing National Champion, he was also a tremendously influential figure in the lives of a vast number of individuals.
He was the epitome of a gentleman. Tom’s life was headed in a positive direction despite the problems he was facing, so he merely cranked up the speed when things became tough. It was amazing to see him again when he retired from racing, but this time it was at Bonneville with his son TR landspeed racing a BIG Inch H-D Tom Reiser. Tom Reiser comes from a generation of builders and racers that is hard to imitate today. p.s. The man gave me a hold that was so tight that it reminded me of the grip on a bench vise when we shook hands. Having this knowledge validated is upsetting.
I was lucky enough to spend a lot of time with Tom, and we even cooperated on a feature article for one of the cycling magazines at one point. I have the highest regard for Tom and would suggest him to anyone interested in riding. A man who, no matter what he was doing at any given moment, gave off the persistent impression of being thrilled and excited.
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