Dave Kero, a noted area bicyclist, is being remembered fondly by friends and colleagues. Kero was killed in a Saturday accident in Phoenix, Ariz., that involved a pickup truck crashing into a group of bicyclists. (Photo courtesy of West End Ski & Trail)

MARQUETTE — A Negaunee resident and noted bicycling enthusiast, Dave Kero, was killed in a Saturday crash near Phoenix, Arizona.

Kero was well entrenched in the local bicycling community, having taken part in many events and lending his expertise to fellow bicyclists.

West End Ski & Trail wrote a Sunday Facebook post regarding the incident.

“It is with a heavy heart and tear-filled eyes that I write this post,” it read. “I am writing it to inform you all of the loss of a beloved member of the West End family.

“Our friend, cousin and mechanic Dave Kero was tragically killed after a truck crashed into a group riding bikes in Phoenix yesterday.

“Dave was loved by all who knew him and will be missed by all.”

According to CNN, a man drove a pickup into a group of bicyclists, killing two and injuring 11 people, and was arrested on manslaughter and assault charges, police in Arizona said.

A truck driven by Pedro Quintana-Lujan crashed into a group of cyclists on the Cotton Lane Bridge in Goodyear, about 28 miles west of Phoenix, according to Goodyear police, CNN reported. Two cyclists died, one had life-threatening injuries and several other people were seriously hurt, police said.

Quintana-Lujan, 26, was booked on two counts of manslaughter, three counts of aggravated assault, 18 counts of endangerment, and two counts of causing serious injury or death by a moving violation, according to the Goodyear Police Department.

West End Ski & Trail, a bicycle shop located at 101 S. Main St., Ishpeming, invited people to post memories of Kero.

“Dave will be greatly missed,” wrote NTN Trails. “I can’t help but think of his great kindness and patience, and willingness to share his wisdom with all. What a great soul to be remembered dearly.”

May Tsupros wrote about her experience in the Ore to Shore Mountain Bike Epic in 2022.

“I finished tired, wet, cold, out of food and water and no ride home,” she posted. “Dave swooped in like an angel and put my bike on this truck, blasted the smiles and heat and drove me all the way back to Ishpeming. He was my hero that day, as I’m sure he’s been yours on other days. I’m filled with sadness at this loss and joy for having known him and called him friend.”

Others called him “a kind soul with a wealth of knowledge and advice” and “one of the most genuine and nicest humans I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting.”

Christie Mastric can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 250. Her email address is cbleck@miningjournal.net.