The Toward Maximum Independence (TMI) Independent Living Services (ILS) department said a final farewell to our client Norbert “Bud” with a touching service on June 28, 2019. Bud, who was with TMI for 15 years, was a very caring and creative soul. He didn't need a lot to be happy and was thankful for everything he had. In his world he was king and lived his best life. Bud was dedicated to creating rat rod style bikes and being part of a bike community where he could express his love of the craft with fellow members. He was a true artist. Bud would welcome anyone into the community and go out of his way to compliment and talk to other members about their creations.
Bud absolutely loved being a part of his “Stray Dawgs” bike community. He organized a bike ride between several other clubs with his best friend. Unfortunately, Bud died before he could see his dream run come true. That ride was turned into his memorial run, where hundreds of bike members from all different clubs showed up to honor and remember a living legend of their bike community. It was a beautiful experience and Bud would have been proud.
“Bud had no family that could be found upon his passing, but his true family was at his gravesite today. Members of his bike club in North County,” said TMI North County Case Manager Monika Driscoll. “These people not only took time off from their jobs today to lay their friend to rest, but they took the buckets of dirt from the grounds man and buried their brother themselves. It was incredibly touching to see these burly men take care of Bud in this very caring and personal way. These people truly saw past any disability Bud had and fully accepted him for who he was.”
Bud had a very hard family life growing up, but found his family in his bike community and with TMI North County. Bud loved to build bikes, ride bikes, and build anything he could create with his hands, as well as cruise Grand Boulevard and hang out with friends. While Bud was very independent, TMI’s ILS program would help him with his bills, medical care and daily tasks if he needed it.
“Bud will always be remembered and loved by many. There’s something beautiful about finding happiness in simplicity,” said TMI Case Manager Shantel Rhode. “When you love what you have, you have everything you need. Bud didn’t have it all, but he had simple happiness and I think we could all learn from him in that manner.”
May you rest in peace, Bud.
Toward Maximum Independence (TMI) has been transforming the lives of children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities since 1981 and the deaf and hard of hearing since 2000. TMI strives to help our clients to realize their hopes and dreams by providing Employment Solutions, Community Living and Family Support Services throughout San Diego, Riverside and Imperial Counties. To stay connected with us follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Together we can share acceptance and awareness, ultimately contributing to further inclusion.
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