It is with deepest regret that the Diablo Cyclists acknowledge the passing of a great friend and long time member Stephen Boutté. The news was shocking to us all; Steve died in his sleep on Monday March 24th. He had just spent a typical weekend with friends, doing what he loved best; riding his bike.
Born on February 17th, 1946, Steve was a long time Bay Area resident and member of the cycling community. Those who knew him share in the loss of this kind and gentle man. He was passionate about cycling and life and was always there to help others with friendship and encouragement. Steve had recently retired and had been enjoying life; taking a week-long cruise, traveling to Thailand, skiing in Colorado and most of all (of course) riding his bikes.
This page serves as a place to post our memories of Steve. Please contribute by submitting a favorite story, remembrance, or anything you think will be appreciated to: Remembering Steve and I will include it on the page. The slide-show below is a collage of photos from Steve's Memorial Ride held on April 12th, 2008 and images of Steve sent from friends.
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Steve Boutté Memorial Ride
April 12, 2008
Steve's passion for the fixed gear was contagious. He fell head over heals for a "fixed gear friendly" experience. We had many conversations about the “ah ha’s” and challenges of this special bike. Our talks and Steve’s fixation on the “fixie” became a hook. He rode his fixed gear more than any other bike, and my curiosity grew. Because the Motobecane was experimental, it wasn’t long before it took back burner to a Specialized. As we know, Steve had bikes; I believe the fixed was his calling. He rode it several times a week. In no time, he was able to spin a tuff gear up hill… His fitness progression was fascinating. The unfolding surprises and physical outcome of riding a fixed was a hot topic between us. I heard the passion in his voice and I saw it on his face when he talked about his new toy... He so inspired me that I had to see for myself.
I got a steel bike unlike Steve’s aluminum. When I got the bike home, Steve came over to check it out and take me on my first ride. There was no mercy, my wheel was flipped into fixed mode immediately---After a moment of fear, we had a blast!
For once, I had a better bike than Stephen Boutte’…and I was able to share first hand. I shared how happy I was that I chose steel. He would not let me have the glory--- he had to top me. Within two weeks, Steve got a beautiful white steel Soma, and of course it had lots of additional high-end parts. That bike was awesome----he out did me for sure. I had to ask what he was going to do when I get a custom bike, he just laughed. I trust he would have topped me then too.
Steve said, "Once you can do Calavares on your fixed you can do a metric century." He left me with a challenge… Steve will be greatly missed and fondly remembered.
Trena
We're all really going to miss Steve. Is there anyone more pleasant to spend an afternoon cycling with?
Curtis Stallins
I have a memory of cycling with Steve that will always stand out in my mind. I was training for my first Triple Crown season and was adding extra miles, riding from my house in Pleasant Hill to Livermore to meet the club at the Calaveras ride start. I was too intimidated to try and ride with the other doubles riders who were starting in Walnut Creek because I didn’t think I could keep up in the pace-line. As I rounded the bend on Highland a stiff head-wind caught me and I began to re-think my decision. I looked up ahead and spotted a familiar rider; who wouldn’t recognize that 6’5?” figure. It was Steve! I got right on his wheel (what wind?) and he pulled me the rest of the way.
June Stephens
Ahhh Steve! The paceline leader, the hill pusher upper, the best wind block ever!Quiet & mellow, strong as an ox, suave & sophisticated (and did I mention good looking)…what a man!
I have many fond memories of riding with Steve and am so grateful I was able to ride (behind) him on one of his last.
