It is with great sadness that Lehman Trikes announces the untimely loss of John K. Lehman, the company's founder and director. John passed away on January 5 in Arizona. The suspected cause of death is heart failure brought on by an embolism. John was 60 years old. He is survived by his wife, Linda; son, Quinten; daughter; Leann; three surviving sisters, Gladys, Linda and Carol; and three grandchildren.

John was one of the most recognized, admired and respected individuals in the motorcycling industry and is generally considered the "Father of the Modern Trike." In 2009, John was inducted into the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum Hall of Fame.

In 1984, John’s passion for motorcycling and his love of family led him to create the first modern trike so that his wife, Linda, could carry one of their children on it. John’s creation had more to do with family togetherness than business. The vehicle garnered so much interest everywhere the family traveled to that Lehman Industries was born, and John Lehman would go on to become one of the most recognized names in motorcycling.

In 1993, John's longtime friend Larry Strilchuk joined him in the business, and Lehman Trikes, Inc. was formed. “Today is crushingly sad,” said Larry. “John Lehman was my lifelong friend and amazing partner. Through good and bad times, John’s gracious nature, love of family and friends, and positive outlook always touched everyone who came in contact with him. He was dearly loved and will be sorely missed.”

Known for his caring and charitable nature, John, along with Larry, started a program called the Good Turn Trike, which eventually became an annual event that provides a trike free of charge to people with a passion for motorcycling who have faced some of life’s greatest challenges. John’s kindness also led him to help raise money for terminally ill children through the Make A Wish Foundation, Kids 'n’ Chrome, and many other worthwhile charities.

Lehman Trikes, Inc. recently released a Letter of Intent from an investment group relating to the sale of the company. The passing of John Lehman will not materially affect that endeavor.   

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