Riders from motorcycle clubs across Canada attended the Langley service for the president of the Haney chapter of the Hells Angels, Mike Hadden on Saturday, Sept. 4.
There were several different clubs from as far away as Quebec, but the majority of the attendees were Hells Angels members.
Police estimated the number of visitors at between 1,000 and 1,500, with some participating in the ride, but not the service.
Law enforcement officers also attended the event, including at least one from Quebec.
RCMP’s Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit, (CFSEU), was also on scene, taking photos.
Held at the Christian Life Assembly Church at, 21277 56th Ave. in Langley, the noon-hour event happened to coincide with the second annual Food Truck festival held in the church parking lot.
Organizers of the festival were advising customers to delay their trip to the festival until after the service, when there would be more room in the parking lot.
Many of the visiting bikers sampled the food truck fare before going inside the church for the service.
READ ALSO: Haney Hells Angels president dies
Hadden, who passed away on Sunday, Aug. 1, at the age of 64, was a lifelong resident of Maple Ridge, and described in an obituary as a “proud member” of the Haney Hells Angels chapter.
He was also owner of Haney Hawgs, a motorcycle shop.
“From Hot Rods to Harleys his legacy was larger than life,” the tribute read.
CFSEU Staff Sgt. Lindsey Houghton said organized crime figures were expected to be in attendance.
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“Hells Angels funerals typically see members of the Hells Angels, their many supporters and affiliates, as well as other individuals connected to organized crime, attend to pay their respects. We are expecting that Mr. Hadden’s funeral will be no different,” Houghton commented.
Houghton said the event was incident-free.
Hadden is survived by his wife Carrie, his sons Jesse and Aaron, three grandchildren, and his partner and friend Dawn.
Have a story tip? Email: dan.ferguson@langleyadvancetimes.com
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