Stevie B’s Ride for Hospice raises thousands in memory of Wellesley cyclist

From left, Sam, Beth and Alex Baechler present a cheque for $6,780 to Lucie Stuart of the Stratford Perth Hospice Foundation in memory of husband and father Steve Baechler. The money was raised through this year’s Stevie B’s Ride for Hospice. Gary West photo

By Gary West

Friends, family and fellow cyclists once again came together in memory of Wellesley’s Steve Baechler, raising thousands of dollars for the Stratford Perth Hospice Foundation through the annual Stevie B’s Ride for Hospice.

Baechler was an avid cyclist and a member of the Wellesley cycling group, the Township Flyers. Following his death, his wife, Beth, and sons, Sam and Alex, wanted to create a lasting legacy in his name while giving back to the hospice that cared for Baechler and his family during his final days.

The family has always been grateful for the love, compassion and support shown to Baechler, as well as his family and friends, by staff at the Rotary Hospice Stratford Perth.

That gratitude led to the creation of Stevie B’s Ride for Hospice, which brings together members of the Township Flyers, family, friends and other supporters for a fundraising ride along the G2G Rail Trail.

This year’s ride once again proved successful, raising $6,780 for the Stratford Perth Hospice Foundation.

Beth, Sam and Alex thanked everyone who participated in the ride and contributed to the fundraiser, helping them continue Baechler’s legacy while supporting hospice care in the community.

A large maple tree has also been planted in Baechler’s memory in the garden behind the hospice, with a plaque bearing his name serving as a lasting tribute to a man who touched the lives of many.