11-13-14

Our amazing friend, Highly.

Highly led us up Mt. Sneffels on July 30th. Our favorite CO 14'er of the summer.

I don't even want to write this (I don't want it to be true) but on Wednesday afternoon we were called with the most sad news. Highly had been killed that morning while out riding his bike. We were and still are so shocked & devastated. To have Highly taken from us so suddenly and in such an awful (& avoidable) way is shattering to us, his MANY friends, his beautiful wife, Sally and their 3 children, son-in-law & extended family.

Us with Highly on top of Mt. Sneffels. July 30, 2014

The outpouring of support in the community has been incredible. Everyone who knew Highly thought the world of him. There are numerous posts on Facebook grieving his loss & describing Highly as one of thee best guys you'll ever meet. It's true. He was a man of integrity, wit, love for his wife & kids, walked his faith and active in their church, incredibly successful yet modest, generous & regularly gave to charities. His fitness level was at an elite level - he was a mountain & road cyclist, hiker, hunter & more. He was just a solid guy who always had a twinkle in his eye. Highly's absence leaves a huge void. Our heart aches for ourselves but especially for Sally & their children.

Highly, Bob, Me & Dean. Both Highly & Dean have 2nd homes in Telluride & are great friends. They hosted Team Vitesse for a mountain biking vacation a couple years ago. It was the best time! 

The past two days have been filled with tears, meeting with friends, gathering photos of Highly and talking about ways of honoring his life. His wife & family are lovingly surrounded with family & close friends. Highly's funeral & celebration of life is next week. We miss you so much already, Highly.

Thankful for the times we did share together (I just want more).