Mathew B. Harris
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Pittsburgh cycling legend Mathew Brady Harris, 57, passed away Wednesday, January 26.
Son of Forrest "Bud" Harris and Maria Harris (nee Evans), Mat was a beloved father of five, business owner, and BMX racing pioneer, winning two BMX national championships, the 1982 Murray Cup, and the 1983 pro cruiser world championship in Holland.
A native of Squirrel Hill, Mat graduated from Taylor Allderdice High School and was always at the center of the city's cycling community, initially riding on teams sponsored by small neighborhood shops, and working in the shops part-time to hone his abilities as a mechanic.
For his contributions, Mat was inducted into the Western Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame, and has an exhibit in the Sports History Center at the Senator John Heinz Museum.
Most recently, Mat was the sole-proprietor of Peak Performance Bicycles in Granby, MA, where he had been serving as a trusted friend and mechanic to the Western MA cycling community for over 30 years.
He leaves behind his five children, Robert, Elijah, Samantha, Danielle, and Chloe, as well as his partner Tina Lariviere. He is also survived by his mother Maria, his step-mother Ann, his sister Susie Smith, other extended family, and countless lifetime friends.
Calling hours will be held on Monday February 7th from 4:00-7:00 at Beers & Story Funeral Home, 646 Newton St, South Hadley, MA.
A celebration of life is planned to be held in Pittsburgh at a later date. Please visit www.beersandstory.com to extend online condolences.