As we announced in the Jan-Feb issue of the Sidecarist, long-time and much-loved USCA member Avanell Lewis passed away last November. Avenell rode a white scooter with a sidecar for 'Precious', her white poodle. J.R. rode a BMW rig with a shark painted on the nose of a Hannigan sidecar. Both were long-time USCA members who made everyone feel welcome at the national rallies.
Last night, we received notice that J.R. passed away on Saturday, February 8th. as he was preparing to attend a CMA meeting. We all knew that J.R. had heart issues that prevented him from driving or riding these last few years. Just the week before, J.R. sounded stronger on the phone and was making plans to attend an upcoming sidecar gathering in Texas.
J.R. and Avanell are once again sidecaring together in heaven, as they both would have wanted. Sidecarists forever...
Say a quiet prayer for J.R. and Avanell's family as they grieve for their loss.
Jan Daub
USCA President
This is very sad news indeed.
Very sad news.
Thank you, Jan, for passing this information along to all of us. Even though many of us may not have ever had the honor of meeting Avanell & JR Lewis, we have heavy hearts on hearing this, as we collectively mourn the loss of another Sister and Brother of the motorcycle world, and specifically the sidecar world. Yes, they were a married couple, but ones that we still call Sister and Brother to all of us.
Two Million Mile Rider...All 7 Continents
Exploring the World in Comfort
I'm glad they are together again, and offer sincere condolences to family and friends. People this bright leave a lasting impression, and great memories. As long as we remember and share those stories, they really aren't "gone". Just ahead of us on the journey. Hopefully their new home has a spare bedroom for the extended visits.
Hold my keyboard and watch this! 🙃
They will surely be missed. I have enjoyed their company at several rallies. They were always happy to see everyone at the rallies. They were both in their 90's and still enthusiastic about sidecars. It was always great to attend a rally that they were present. I am sure that they are riding together with their poodle somewhere in heaven.
