Center Mourns the Loss of Mark “Spanky” Bialous; Devoted Member of the Braking the Cycle Family
The Center is extremely sad to hear that our friend and tireless supporter Mark “Spanky” Bialous has passed away this week after battling cancer.
Spanky was a beloved member of Team Eagle, an amazing group of cyclists who consistently raise the most money for the Center’s annual Braking the Cycle fundraiser, a three-day bike ride from Boston to New York, which supports the Center’s vital HIV/AIDS Services. Team Eagle raised a hundred thousand dollars for the Center in 2010.
He was truly a special character and a few of his friends shared these wonderful Braking the Cycle memories about him:
“He had all of his outfits custom made for the ride and they had labels inside that said “petite” because ‘when you go custom they’ll do anything you want.’ He was about 6′6″”
“One night at dinner in PA on the old G’burg/NYC route, ride organizer Eric Epstein was making his announcements and a cell phone started ringing. It was Spanky’s who of course was dressed up like a French maid. As you and I both know, pockets are not always available so he had it shoved down his cleavage. He dug it out – seriously – whole arm down the front of his dress and got it turned off. He was 20 shades of red. About 30 seconds later Eric was back doing his announcements talking about route safety or hydration or something and Spanky’s phone said “message received” with perfect timing.”
The Center extends its deepest condolences to Spanky’s family, friends and his comrades on Team Eagle. He will never be far from our hearts and we’ll be remembering him fondly on this year’s Braking the Cycle ride.
There is a viewing on Saturday, April 9th 2011 2 PM – 4 PM and 7 PM – 9 PM
Location:
Buckley Funeral Home
509 Second Avenue
Asbusy Park, NJ