Dayton, Ohio (WDTN) — A man from Kettering returned to his family after biking 2,000 miles to honor his friends and raise awareness about a rare cancer.
It was hot and humid when Bill Pepperman left Fallbrook, Calif. for Kettering. He considered quitting, but the option wasn’t on the table.
Keep the memories of your dear friend alive one mile at a time. That’s what Pepperman of California is doing. His friend John Fluroff died in 2022 from a rare form of liposarcoma cancer.
Ms Pepperman decided to pay tribute to Mr Fluroff with a shared favorite pastime, which family and friends said was the best way to pay tribute.
“He hiked the Appalachian Trail, he loved running, he was always running, he loved cycling, but running was his thing,” said John’s son, Jake Fluroff. “I think he’s going to be shocked. I’m so proud and I wish I could have done it with him.”
Pepperman averaged 84 miles per day on this journey through deserts, cornfields and landmarks. What he has learned is an appreciation for the environment and the conversations along the way.
Finally, waiting for him, of course, was his family, who gave him hugs, love, and a t-shirt commemorating the lot of blood, sweat, and tears.
Despite being tired and exhausted from the long journey, Pepperman never lost sight of why he was taking the ride.
“In one of my quotes, I think I said I wish John had a day for every pedal I pedaled,” Pepperman added.
When asked what he was most looking forward to after the trip, he replied, “Hot showers, good food, and iced tea and lemonade.”
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https://www.wdtn.com/news/local-news/kettering-man-bikes-across-the-country-to-honor-friend-who-died-from-cancer/ Kettering Native Bikes Nationwide to Remember Friends Who Died of Cancer