LORD,
thank you for the open air,
the feel of wind blowing through my hair;
Just me alone upon my bike,
the thrill of freedom's what I like.
To wind through country unexplored,
not knowing what I'll see next LORD;
That's what I seek when off I ride,
I'm thankful that you're by my side.
If I should ride 'til morning's light,
please keep me safe throughout the night;
And when I've come to journey's end,
It's you I'll thank - protector, ...
FRIEND..
Grant Johnson
Jeffrey ''JJ'' Joseph Mountin
March 21, 1969 - October 08, 2004
On October 8, 2004 the XJ world lost one of our own. 35 years young, Jeff Mountin died suddenly and unexpectedly of a heart attack in his home.
Jeff was a fixture in our world. An "Original Owner" as he would describe himself, he found his 1985 XJ750XN MaximX new. It had been sitting neglected in the showroom, a dusty gem that Jeff recognized as the treasure it was years before others called them 'classics'.
Jeff was a very early member of the XJ Owner's mailing list group and in 2000 he stepped up to the plate as the new "listowner". For the next 4 years he served to administer the technical details, help subscribers with e-mail problems, politely quell the unruly and offer help to all who asked.
On news of his death, tributes poured in from all over the world. Nils Tangedal sums up how we all feel:
"I believe all members of this group are as stunned and saddened as can be. Mountin Man was unique in knowledge and helpfulness. They must have broken the mold after he was cast, because there sure aren't many around to equal Jeff's competence and understanding of complex issues.
During my time on this list I have grown very fond of Mountin Man and I have succeeded when following his advice. For that and his personal style and kindness I will be forever grateful. One important character trait is as List-Owner, he never put anyone down without bringing them back up. Whenever he was sarcastic in his comments, it was always with a smile.
He was a man of warmth and compassion. Jeff Mountin was truly one-of-a-kind and his presence will be sorely missed. His memory will always be with us. And we will have to work hard to live up to his standards."
This edition of the XJCD is dedicated to his memory. Godspeed, Jeff, and thanks.
tafn
dv
"I cannot abide even the thought of severe restrictions on my mobility. Can cite all those that worked hard with their hands and after retiring or ending up in a home that didn't last much longer than that. Almost the same as some stuff I saw on welding talking about fumes and one person wondered how the blacksmith in a barn lived to 80, smoked, chewed, drank, and only died after having to retire from the work he loved. Quality of life and I have been growing my hair out a bit more, so like the wind in it. Makes a good scarf too. ;)
Take Care!
Jeff "The Mountin Man" - '86 MaximX"
