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General Category => Fallen Friends => Topic started by: TexasDave on October 17, 2016, 03:34:43 PM

Title: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16 (Cash Dereszynski)
Post by: TexasDave on October 17, 2016, 03:34:43 PM
R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16 (Cash Dereszynski (http://www.fjowners.com/index.php?action=profile;u=4428))

This was just posted on the FJ09 forum. Does anyone know if this guy was a member here?

Yesterday (10/16/16) I rode right past the body of a fellow rider on California Hwy 74 just outside of Palm Desert.  We'd had coffee a couple of times recently in Idyllwild; we weren't really friends, had just seen each other enough on our bikes to say hi and share a conversation or two.  The road had been reopened after his crash and his body was plainly visible covered by a white sheet only a few feet off the road, in the dirt, while a CHP officer took photos and notes. I recognized the bike by the side of the road as his old Yamaha FJ1200 which he had proudly converted to a "street fighter" as he called it.  It was so weird as all the emergency vehicles had left the scene and there was just one CHP, apparently waiting for the coroner, the bike and the body just laying there.  Hwy 74 is famously twisty and dangerous, frequented by old Harley riders and young Ninja-riding squids alike.  Eric was 65 and had been riding for many years.  It appeared as though he had simply lost the front end on a curve; a curve he'd no doubt negotiated hundreds of times.  I'm telling you this not because he had an FJ-09, he didn't, but because we all occasionally need to be reminded how quickly it can all end.  You don't need to set a new "personal best" every time you tackle your favorite road.  Just ride safely!


Read more: http://fj-09.org/posts/recent#ixzz4NNPTP200 (http://fj-09.org/posts/recent#ixzz4NNPTP200)
Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16
Post by: FJmonkey on October 17, 2016, 03:41:23 PM
Cash (Erick) is no longer with us, his wife called me (Found me in his phone) and said he died at the scene where he crashed on HWY 74 about 5 miles from home. She knows he vids his rides and hopes his camera will provide some evidence to the cause of his crash and death. She said there was another rider down according to law enforcement but that is not, at the moment, related to his crash. His wife Michelle is open to any and all videos and pictures you may have of him. Send me a PM and I will provide her contact number if you want it.
Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16
Post by: Pat Conlon on October 17, 2016, 03:53:05 PM
Yes, I also just got the news....
http://www.desertsun.com/story/news/traffic/2016/10/16/highway-fatality-palm-desert/92212230/ (http://www.desertsun.com/story/news/traffic/2016/10/16/highway-fatality-palm-desert/92212230/)

RIP Eric (cash) I sure had fun riding with you up to Willits for the 2016 WCR.
You and I have been thru that Hwy 74 corner numerous times, you could run that corner with one hand and your eyes closed.
I don't know what happened.

We will miss you.

Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16
Post by: racerrad8 on October 17, 2016, 04:14:28 PM
Bad news indeed. I spoke with Eric this past week while he was working on the tail light for his bike.

God speed and R.I.P. Eric
Cash Dereszynski (http://www.fjowners.com/index.php?action=profile;u=4428)

Randy - RPM

Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16
Post by: TexasDave on October 17, 2016, 04:38:08 PM
In his last post Eric mentions he is unhappy with the BT45 on the front which is almost worn out and cupping badly. I hope this did not contribute to his accident. It is unfortunate to lose a fellow who so enjoyed riding. RIP Eric

Dave
Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16
Post by: Country Joe on October 17, 2016, 05:11:38 PM
That's terrible news. Godspeed, Eric.
Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16
Post by: big r on October 17, 2016, 05:16:27 PM
I never had the pleasure of meeting Cash, but he had some great posts. R.I.P sir. Big R
Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16
Post by: X-Ray on October 17, 2016, 05:27:01 PM
Damn, always terrible to hear of this happening. RIP Cash.
Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16
Post by: movenon on October 17, 2016, 05:43:35 PM
Truly sad to hear about this.  May he RIP and thoughts go out to his family. I never met him but there is a shared commonality. Please, everyone ride to live another day.
George
Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16
Post by: FeralRdr on October 17, 2016, 06:41:58 PM
Terrible news indeed.  RIP Cash.
Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16
Post by: fj johnnie on October 17, 2016, 07:55:02 PM
 My thoughts are with his family. Ride safe all.
Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16
Post by: Pat Conlon on October 17, 2016, 08:02:25 PM
(http://fjowners.com/gallery/9/4428_04_07_15_7_54_22.jpeg)
Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16
Post by: copper on October 17, 2016, 08:53:28 PM
I enjoyed his build, especially the headlight/fairing. Tragic my thoughts are with his family
Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16
Post by: moparman70 on October 18, 2016, 12:56:23 AM
this is very sad news indeed -- I met Cash this past rally and immediately felt he was going to be a close part of the group.  So terrible to get this news of his passing.   RIP Cash -

sc2
Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16
Post by: Capn Ron on October 18, 2016, 02:39:47 AM
NO...no NO!!!  Not Cash...  He showed up at the WCR in Willits this year and shared a cabin with Skymaster and me.  Instant connection with him...always a smile on his face and a kind word.  Wow.  I was just talking about him last week in that I'd hang out and ride with that guy anytime.  What a great soul and a good human.  I'm at a loss for better words, but we've lost one of the good ones.  You are missed already my friend.  Ride on.
Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16
Post by: ribbert on October 18, 2016, 07:30:45 AM
I live on the other side of the planet and never spoke with Cash on the forum, but none the less, it feels like one of the family has gone and it's very sad.

Noel
Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16
Post by: jscgdunn on October 18, 2016, 09:13:22 AM
Very sad to hear; really enjoyed meeting Cash at Willits.  He was a big MotoGP fan.  He was very proud of his street fighter conversion.

Jeff
Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16
Post by: Firehawk068 on October 18, 2016, 01:40:12 PM
Damn! This just sucks to hear.
NEver met him, but from what people have said about him, he was a good guy.
Sad..............
Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16
Post by: ZOA NOM on October 18, 2016, 03:48:49 PM
Godspeed. There but for the Grace of God... I had a minor "moment" on the last Renegade run that reeled me back in a bit. It only takes a tiny lapse... Be careful guys.
Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16
Post by: racerrad8 on October 18, 2016, 05:55:27 PM
It is troubling to read some of the news reports that indicate there might have been a second motorcyclist involved in the collision. Hopefully more information will come forward so we can all learn from this tragedy.

Randy - RPM
Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16
Post by: aviationfred on October 18, 2016, 08:30:28 PM
This is sad news to hear. I had never met Cash, but was looking forward to meeting him at next years WCR. Maybe his GoPro will shine some light on what happened.

R.I.P. Eric!!


Fred
Title: Update - R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16
Post by: FJmonkey on October 19, 2016, 12:31:59 PM
I just spoke with Michelle Erick's wife and learned that Eric died from a heart attack. He had no history with heart problems. Michelle and her sister are still making arrangements for a service/gathering in the near future. It will be in SoCal and most likely in Palm Desert where he lived. If any are planning to attend please post up (or PM) so I can take a headcount for Michelle.

Anyone wishing to donate or send cards then stand by for the next update. If you will be attending the service then feel free to deliver it person.

As soon as a day/time/place is selected I will post another update.  
Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16
Post by: fj1289 on October 19, 2016, 12:48:06 PM
Godspeed Cash.  Prayers and best wishes sent for the family. 
Title: Re: Update - R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16
Post by: racerrad8 on October 19, 2016, 02:20:30 PM
Quote from: FJmonkey on October 19, 2016, 12:31:59 PM
I just spoke with Michelle Erick's wife and learned that Eric died from a heart attack. He had no history with heart problems.

Well, in a lot of ways that is a relief. There was no other persons involved, mechanical issues or rider error. I hate the fact Eric passed, but he passed while doing what he loved; riding his motorcycle.

Ride safe and be careful.

R.I.P Eric

Randy - RPM
Title: Re: Update - R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16
Post by: Dads_FJ on October 19, 2016, 02:54:54 PM
Quote from: racerrad8 on October 19, 2016, 02:20:30 PM
Quote from: FJmonkey on October 19, 2016, 12:31:59 PM
I just spoke with Michelle Erick's wife and learned that Eric died from a heart attack. He had no history with heart problems.

Well, in a lot of ways that is a relief. The was no other persons involved, mechanical issues or rider error. I hate the fact Eric passed, but he passed while doing what he loved; riding his motorcycle.

Ride safe and be careful.

R.I.P Eric

Randy - RPM

Ditto this ^^^
Title: Re: Update - R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16
Post by: Pat Conlon on October 19, 2016, 03:19:33 PM
Quote from: racerrad8 on October 19, 2016, 02:20:30 PM
Quote from: FJmonkey on October 19, 2016, 12:31:59 PM
I just spoke with Michelle Erick's wife and learned that Eric died from a heart attack. He had no history with heart problems.

I hate the fact Eric passed, but he passed while doing what he loved; riding his motorcycle.


Ok, that makes sense. Cash knew that road so well and he was a careful rider.
I went up to the spot (between mile marker 91.50-91.51) and the corner was clean and smooth.

Thank you Mark. Count me in for his memorial, definately. I'll arrange for some flowers sent to Michelle on behalf of our group.

Can you guys help me in getting some pictures together of Cash? I know the 2016 WCR was his first rally. He sure had fun. Pat
Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16
Post by: ZOA NOM on October 19, 2016, 04:15:25 PM
Wow, that's pretty high up on the list of best ways to go, I suppose. Glad no one else was hurt, and God Bless his family.
Title: Re: Update - R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16
Post by: Cash Dereszynski on October 21, 2016, 02:06:36 PM
A note from Eric's daughter, Marcella:

Hi everyone -- Randy gave me access to my dad's account.
My dad died doing what he loved, and I am taking solace in that.

As Mark mentioned, it was not a bike failure or rider error that made him crash but a terribly ill timed heart attack.
My dad was a lifelong motorcyclist and the best, coolest guy ever.

We are having two services this weekend:

SATURDAY, OCT 22 - LOS ANGELES
2PM Casual Chant - Koyasan Buddhist Temple
342 E 1st St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
*His wife won't be present, just me

SUNDAY, OCT 23 - PALM DESERT
10AM Memorial - Sunnylands (Botanical Garden)
37977 Bob Hope Drive Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
*Bring a blanket if you want to sit on the grass. Eat breakfast before but note that there is a cafe on site. Send me a message if you would like to say a few words to the group.

I'd love to meet any of my dad's friends so please let me know if you can come!
Also - I made a 'zine' about him that I'd be happy to send anyone interested.

Marcella Zimmermann
marcella.zimmermann@gmail.com
www.facebook.com/marcella.zimmermann (http://www.facebook.com/marcella.zimmermann)
310-405-4887
Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16
Post by: Cash Dereszynski on October 21, 2016, 02:15:30 PM
No second rider. Misinformation published by loser local news.
- Marcella, Eric's daughter

Quote from: racerrad8 on October 18, 2016, 05:55:27 PM
It is troubling to read some of the news reports that indicate there might have been a second motorcyclist involved in the collision. Hopefully more information will come forward so we can all learn from this tragedy.

Randy - RPM
Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16
Post by: FJmonkey on October 21, 2016, 02:58:23 PM
Count me in for both services...
Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16
Post by: Pat Conlon on October 21, 2016, 03:12:14 PM
I will be at the Palm Desert Service. Mark, and others, if you need a place to spend the night, my house is open.

I'm riding my FJ to the service. :good2:

I spoke with Marcella, bring no flowers....only motorcycles! She sounds delightful....
Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16
Post by: FJmonkey on October 21, 2016, 03:23:40 PM
I also planned to ride my bike to the Sunday service.
Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16
Post by: FJscott on October 21, 2016, 04:37:58 PM
Marcella,
My deepest and most sincere condolences to you and your family for the loss of your Dad. I met your Dad for the first time at the WCR this past May. Your Dad had an infectious smile, magnetic personality and passionate about his motorcycles and life in general. after our first conversation with him I left thinking outloud " I really like this guy" and that feeling was shared by all he met at the rally.

I am truly saddened by this news. even as it seems rider error and,or mechanical issue was not the cause of this tragic loss of life I urge all my FJ Brothers, do the walk around, check tire pressures, fluid levels before you ride and ATGATT.

Scott

RIP Eric
Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16 (Cash Dereszynski)
Post by: 1tinindian on October 26, 2016, 03:00:22 PM
Sorry I missed this post, and my thoughts go out to his family and all those that called him, "friend".

If we could only be able to pick our time, this would not be a "terrible" way to go.
RIP.

Leon
Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16 (Cash Dereszynski)
Post by: Troyskie on October 27, 2016, 03:45:42 AM
RIP Cash.
Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16 (Cash Dereszynski)
Post by: andyoutandabout on October 29, 2016, 01:50:58 AM
Had fun with this guy at the 2016 WCR. We rode the 20 to take breakfast at Fort Bragg Denny's. Cash was an easy going fella and a spirited rider. He was justifiably proud of his snowmobile faired street fighter. He'll be missed.
Thoughts to his family.
Andy
Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16 (Cash Dereszynski)
Post by: Capn Ron on October 30, 2016, 01:37:29 AM
(http://fjowners.com/gallery/10/697_30_10_16_12_33_32.jpeg)

I just miss 'im... :sorry:
Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16 (Cash Dereszynski)
Post by: yamaha fj rider on October 30, 2016, 09:22:59 AM
We spent most of Friday, at WCR ridding with Cash. He will definitely be missed.

Kurt & Kiki
Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16 (Cash Dereszynski)
Post by: DR.GTS.DUCATI.FAZER Dave on October 30, 2016, 12:45:44 PM
I never met him nor made a WCR, but Randy T (rktmanfj) did just before the Ouray Central rally 2016. I imagine they met and got along.

My condolences to the family both his personal and the group. 2 passing within days.

A good way to go, yes definitely doing what one loved.

Eric, keep Randy company for us until we all meet again.

Dave
Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16 (Cash Dereszynski)
Post by: Yamahammer1200 on October 31, 2016, 09:43:50 PM
Cash, you motherfucker.  You still owe me a pack of smokes.  We had a good time hanging out in the KOA teepee, drinking and talking about life in the fast lane.
You taught me how to ride a goat trail in style.
I am happy to have known you, but devasted by your passing.
I hope your family is comforted by knowing that you are loved by your fellow riders.
Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16 (Cash Dereszynski)
Post by: Yamahammer1200 on October 31, 2016, 10:43:17 PM
Bransford
Title: Re: R.I.P Eric Zimmermann 10/16/16 (Cash Dereszynski)
Post by: Steve_in_Florida on November 01, 2016, 08:47:03 AM

The more I see Cash's bike, the more I like the front end.

Reminds me of that annoying robot in the Transformers movies.

He did well.

Steve