News

A Sad Day for Off-Road Motorcycling: Rest in Peace Ted Dirstein

Ted Dirstein who was a former OO president, a great racer, and a dedicated friend to our sport was involved in a fatal plane crash on Friday. Ted will be missed by all of us who have known him over the years as he was a man of exceptional character. Many of us have good days where we are polite and kind and helpful, Ted never took a day off, he was gentleman through and through. Our condolences to Lauralea and Ted’s family, please know that you have many friends in the motorcycle community that share your grief and will help you through this tough time. We will miss you Ted.

A note from Laurelea Dirstein:

As many of you know my dad, Ted Dirstein has passed away suddenly in a plane crash last Friday night. It has been a very hard few days for friends and family and continues to be a struggle each and every hour.

He was an accomplished pilot, and his skills were highly regarded in the aviation industry. Working as a test pilot, teacher, and mentor to many.

Many people also got to see him in action on dirt bike trails. Whooping everyones butt and showing us young guys you dont have to get ‘old’. He was a voice for the off-road motocross world, working with Muskoka off-road riders, Ontario Off-road, and lending a hand in events whenever they arose. In 1976 he even brought home a silver medal for team Canada in the world renowned ISDE.

Karen Dirstein (wife), daughter (Kari Dirstein), myself, and friends were lucky enough to cherish his upbeat love of life, and smart jokes. He was a teacher to many, to his children, people leaning to fly, and hopping on bikes for the first time.

I wanted to thank the few close friends of family that have been around the last few days holding us close. Helping us deal and continue to be a huge support.

He was a loving father, husband, brother and revered friend to many. A small visitation will be held this Wednesday at Reynolds funeral home here in Bracebridge 2-4 & 7-9. A celebration of life will be held in August.

Many are asking what they can do to help. We are blessed to have Ed Kikauka, Teds best friend, and executor, to manage the delicate situation. I however, would like people to take the time in the next few days to spend time with their loved ones. Tell them how you feel and share moments together. It blows me away how fast my best friend, and father, was taken from me.

Rest in peace dad, and keep having fun.