Charles Witham Memorial Website

Charles K. Witham,
Advocacy and Activism
Contributed Photos and Stories

A message from Ron Milam, Executive Director, Los Angeles County Bicycle Coalition

We mourn the loss of a tremendous member and friend. The shocking news of Chuck's death left a wake of extreme sadness in the cycling community.

Chuck biked to work and around town regularly, and volunteered countless hours for the Bicycle Coalition. Besides being very effective, he brought great joy to everyone he worked with.

Chuck led the Pasadena Foothill Bicycle Initiative, whose advocacy passed a Pasadena Bicycle Master Plan. He co-led our campaign to increase bicycle funding in L.A. County. Chuck volunteered both years for our L.A. River Ride, sweeping the ride on bike in 2001 (riding over 80 miles!), and as a team captain for a pit stop in 2002. He was our representative on the Arroyofest Steering Committee. He managed our email announcement list and oversaw the distribution of this newsletter.

One of Chuck’s last emails encouraged friends to mobilize at the August 12th Pasadena City Council meeting to hold the city accountable, and implement their Bicycle Plan. Over 40 peopled attended, and the city committed to speeding up the process and meeting with Bike Coalition members. A core group of existing advocates and Chuck’s friends have stepped forward to keep the momentum going.

Chuck was a friend of mine and to many in the Bike Coalition. He was inspiring to be around, and made many people smile. We're going to miss you Chuck. Your memory will live on through all of us as we continue building a more bicycle friendly society.

Ron Milam
Executive Director
Los Angeles County Bicycle Coalition
www.labikecoalition.org