The Ride For Eric

Eric loved his Harley. He was so proud of the 2002 Wide Glide he built and customized. I remember receiving a phone call from him during the summer of 2015 when he found out that his HOG was going to be featured in American Iron Garage magazine. I could see the smile on his face even though I was 3,000 miles away. "I finally made it," he said. Eric told the magazine writer that he hoped to one day own every model of motorcyle that Harley Davidson ever produced. And he was on his way. Eric owned a half-dozen Harleys. 

Eric also loved his "kids," Midnight and Bosco, two dogs he adopted from North Shore Animal league and raised as pups. Midnight and Bosco went everywhere with Eric. He loved--LOVED--those dogs deeply. When he had to put Midnight to sleep last year, because there was just nothing more he could do to treat his cancer, the loss Eric felt was tremendous. 

That's how my family and I and all of Eric's friends feel now.  

Eight months ago, Eric, my dear brother, was brutally murdered. He was attacked on the steps of his house in Bardonia, NY, as he returned from a night out with a friend. Bosco was in the backyard, barking. He must have sensed that something was wrong. Although Eric, who was so strong, fought hard to stay alive, he passed away nine days later, succumbing to the stab wounds that covered his body. Neither Eric nor Bosco had a chance to say goodbye to each other.  

Eric's family and his close friends are still waiting for "justice." His murderer, although inarcerated, has yet to be prosecuted. Everyday without Eric is hugely painful.  

Eric would have turned 51 on Sunday April 23rd. On that day, Eric's close friend and fellow Hog rider, Curtis Berthold, has planned a glorious motorcyle ride in his honor: The Ride For Eric. This charity event will benefit the North Shore Animal League, which will set up a mobile adoption unit at the end of the ride in Eric's name. 

We're hoping to raise $1500 for this charity ride. Please consider making a donation in Eric's memory. 

I'd like to personally thank Curtis and Amy Berthold for this incredibly heartfelt tribute. I will never, ever forget it. And thank you to Empire Harley Davidson, the North Shore Animal League, American League Post 1575, and all of my brother's amazing friends and fellow Harley riders. 

--Jason Leopold