AJ Cleary would have been stoked over the intense amount of support and passion the community has for him and his family.
The Vernon mountain biker will be honoured at the Friday, July 11 AJ Cleary Memorial event at the Vernon Golf and Country Club.
At just 34-years-old, Cleary’s life was cut short when an avalanche buried him near Keefer Lake on March 8, 2014.
A native of Come By Chance, Nfld., Cleary was also a Calgary resident, where he met his wife Laura who lived next door.
The couple moved to Vernon in 2008, where they both worked as nurses at Vernon Jubilee Hospital.
Cleary, aka Turbo, OJ and “one of the nicest dudes ever,” was also an avid mountain biker, and coach, who was routinely riding the trails at Silver Star.
With a passion for adventure, Cleary experienced a lot. But the fact that he left behind his wife and their unborn child has brought the community together to support the baby.
“I’m so surprised by it and touched and overwhelmed by the community support,” said Laura Cleary, who is due Aug. 9.
Laura doesn’t know if she is having a boy or a girl, but she already has the name picked out – Adrian.
“I’m going to be naming the baby after him,” said Laura, as AJ’s full name is Adrian John.
AJ’s parents are also impressed by the support that has surrounded their son. So much in fact, that are flying in from Newfoundland to take part in the event.
“His parents are both so touched and so grateful.”
While AJ loved inspiring and connecting with people, Laura says he would have been amazed at just how many lives he did touch.
“I think he would have been surprised that he had such an impact.”
For Sarah Vincent, who didn’t even know AJ, it’s been a fulfilling experience organizing the event in honour of her friend (Laura’s) husband.
“She is so strong,” said Vincent, who works with Laura. “I just hope that we will be able to make this not so great time a little bit easier.”
She also wants all of AJ’s loved ones to know: “He’s not going to be forgotten.”
The memorial will feature a slideshow, entertainment by Amistad, door prizes and a silent auction.
The support Vincent has received from the community has been amazing.
Just a few of the items donated include a wake surfer (Valley Marine), downhill mountain biking pass and overnight stay at Silver Star, Vernon Golf and Country Club passes, liquor and coffee baskets and gift certificates galore.
Tickets to the 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. event are $35 and available at Skyride, Olympia Cycle, Crave Massage and Chicken Little. Or contact Vincent via Facebook: AJ Memorial Silent Auction page. Any remaining tickets will be available at the door for $40.
All proceeds will go to Laura and baby Adrian.
