OBITUARY
Above: This photo by Jan Nauta was one of Michael’ s all time favourites. Whenever it came into view he would say,“ Hmmm... Mechanic’ s hands, l love that.” Below: MD’ s very last ride. He and Sheryl toured the South Island for a couple of weeks to visit their favourite places, only a few months before he died.
the smallest motorcycle club in NZ( possibly the world). I wear that Star with pride and respect. We had no formal rules as such, but it meant knowing that a mate could arrive at any time day or night … So, in the winter of‘ 95 I was living on the Scenic Drive in the Waitakere’ s west of Auckland. It was late in the day when I heard the distinctive rumble of a BMW airhead approaching. I looked out of the door, to see MD parking up. He was wanting warmth, food and a bed.“ Sorry, I forgot to call ahead” were his first words. Once inside and as things warmed up he removed his Black leather jacket and I was a little surprised to see him wearing a shoulder holster with a 1911 Colt 45. He looked at me and said,“ There are weirdos out there Vege …”. And he was right. The night got better and better after that. MD was so much more than a mechanic; he was a father to Pearl and Josh, lover to Sheryl and he was passionate about our military history. He lived a life full of wonder and laughter and the pure joy that comes from twisting a throttle on a flat twin. We will ride again when I get to Valhalla, vale MD. PETE‘ VEGE’ MCPHEE
102 KIWI RIDER