Passing of cyclist

SAM Lamendola was a Rotarian and a family man.
But cycling was one of his true loves so it seems fitting he passed away on Monday, aged 73, after one of his daily rides.
After retiring from his work as a potato farmer in Gembrook, Mr Lamendola took up bike riding and cycled all over Australia for fun and charity.
His wife Vivienne said he came home from his ride, made a cup of tea and he was gone.
“He would have wanted it to happen that way,” she said. “He would have wanted to have his last ride.”
The keen Richmond Tigers supporter kept himself fit and healthy with a rigorous fitness program – he trained three days a week at the gym and rode his bike every other day.
He combined his love of cycling and charity by joining the Pakenham Rotary Club in 2006.
Although known for his quiet manner, Mr Lamendola was always actively involved and was chairman of the international service committee in 2009.
He particularly enjoyed taking part in the annual “Ride to Rotary Conference” bike ride, which involved riding 600km in six days while raising funds, seeking sponsorship and letting people know what Rotary was all about.
Mr Lamendola delighted in taking part in every aspect of the rides and it didn’t matter where he started, he always managed to finish the day with the lead group.
He will be deeply missed by all involved with Rotary.
Mr Lamendola leaves behind his wife, three children, three stepchildren and six grand-children.
The funeral date is not yet known.