Southern Sierra club mourns death of leader

IMBA Trail News
Volume 11, Number 5
November 1998

The Southern Sierra Fat Tire Association is deeply saddened to announce the death of David Simpson, 38 years old. David was accidentally struck by a vehicle while riding within the bike lane on Pacific Coast Highway in Dana Point, California, on Sept. 11, 1998.

David was the proud founder of the Southern Sierra Fat Tire Association, originally known as the Mountain Weenies. He is also known as the founder of the Keyesville Classic Mountain Bike Race. David will be remembered by friends and family as the mountain bike "guru" of the southern Sierra region and the southern San Juaquin Valley.

Some of Dave's accomplishments include his hands-on political involvement, guiding the SSFTA to affiliation with IMBA, and adoption of four cycling and hiking trails. The US Forest Service and SSFTA recently dedicated the Kern Canyon Trail to Dave.

After a Memorial Service attended by club members wearing their club jerseys, Dave's son Brian led more than 200 cyclists on a local bike path ride.

Dave is survived by his wife of 18 years, Denise and son Brian 7, of Bakersfield. A trust fund has been established in Brian's name and donations will be accepted in care of Denise Simpson, 2039 N. Baker St, Bakersfield, CA 93305.