It seems impossible. Our dear friend Maridee is gone. That thought keeps coming into my mind over and over in disbelief.. Perhaps that must happen to help me get through this tremendous grief. The story is here.
https://www.vashonbeachcomber.com/2026/06/16/for-maridee-bonadea-biking-meant-everything/
I decided I needed a bike ride, and would take one of my usual bike routes from home, and dedicate it to Maridee. It was difficult for me to even think of riding my bike, so a banking errand was the catalyst for that as it got me off the couch onto the saddle. Once done with the errand I thought I might just skip that planned ride and return directly home. As I started that way the thought came to me that Maridee would not like that. She would want all of us to keep riding our bikes and continue to enjoy time on the saddle. So on I continued. It was a clear and gloriously blue sky day. When i got home and told Susan of my decision to keep riding, she said that Maridee was on my shoulder and riding with me. I like that thought.
I finished my ride with Maridee totally occupying my thoughts. Much of that was grief of course, but some was remembering how much she loved cycling and how much she contributed to the group of women in the Rainbow Riders unofficial “club”. About 26 years ago I started the “club” and led rides every month up to about 2020. Once I turned it over to someone else, the group riding together faded into near non-existence. But there were many deep, loving and meaningful friendships that formed and have never faded away. Rainbows ride in smaller numbers, shorter rides and less often now. But, especially with our friend Kristin’s initiative and ongoing love and desire for our group of women to have meaningful time together, we continue to gather several times a year for celebrations or short riding experiences.
As well as giving much to her community — and to the world (see above article), Maridee was a very valuable addition to that group and we each and all are in deep grievance over losing her. She was a very experienced and accomplished cyclist and this was such an unnecessary tragedy due to lack of good infrastructure and value of bicyclists using their bike as alternative transportation.
I am having a hugely difficult and emotional time processing Maridee’s death and the way she died. It will take me a long time to come to terms with that, but with the support of each other, all of us Rainbows will get through it.
We so love you Maridee, you leave a huge hole in our lives, and big cracks in our hearts.
Adventures with Nancy 
Dear Nancy, we are all devastated by Maridee‘s loss but we were really happy that we got to spend time with you yesterday so we could all talk about it and be together. I just spoke with Laura and she sounded like she wanted to talk, said that Lonnie had been there all week and so had Laura‘s sister, so she at least has a lot of support. But I think she appreciated me calling, so I will check in with her every now and then. We are looking forward to seeing you again on Monday.
Love and hugs,
Kim
Sent from my iPhone
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We are all here together in our mourning for Maridee. It will be good to see you on Monday.
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Oh Nancy. I’m so sorry for your loss. What a tragedy! Thanks for writing about it and for your vulnerability. Be safe out there! I love reading about your adventures.
Carole (SOTF from LL Stub Stewart campout!)
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Thank you Carole. Your note is very appreciated.
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Nancy,
Thanks. A very nice tribute to Maridee.
Gay
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Thanks Gay.
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I’m so sorry to learn of your dear friend’s death. My deepest condolences.
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Thank you Joyce, I appreciate your note.
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Right there with you Nancy. Been partnering with Kristin to finally remove that dangerous parking. Would be meaningful to ride together when you are ready. 💔
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Yes, it would be.
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Oh dear Nancy, I was so very sorry when I learned of this terrible tragedy in my neighborhood, and now to know that Maridee is a dear friend of yours.
Your life is forever altered for knowing Maridee. Be oh so gentle with yourself as you navigate the immense waves of grief and sorrow.
Much love and compassion,
Judi Finney
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Judi, your words are so thoughtful and comforting. This tragedy and the loss of Maridee is indeed a difficult loss to come to terms with. It was shocking to all of us who know her and know of her awareness and care when cycling. Thank you so much for your thoughts and your cherished words.
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