Sad news! Gone but Never Forgotten
> 08/10/2008
Saturday August 9th, a tragedy has befallen our IFWA
community.
At Approximately 2 am PST, beloved friend and USA FreeRider Zach Waddle
and his Girlfriend Libby were killed by an out of control motorist while
walking to their lodging from an evening out with friends.
After striking the couple, the offending Vehicle continued into the
nearby Nestucca River. One passenger was able to escape, but the driver
was found dead in the car. Alcohol was a factor, according to a Tillamook
County Sherriff Deputy at the scene. The Identity of the occupants of
the vehicle are not released at this time.
The Town of Pacific City is a small single stop signal Light beach community.
The accident occurred on a quite Resort road that is rarely traveled
at that time of of the day.
The Couple, both 26 years, from Vancouver Washington
were in Pacific City Oregon for the annual Blowsion Beach Party which
was planned for the day of the 9th at Tierra Del Mar Beach.
Zach was a very enthusiastic Jetskier with a natural
desire for Freeride. He Joined the IFWA in 2004 to attend his first
event in Spain quickly making friends and later Going on to compete
well in the Bali Nations Cup where he was sidelined by an injury after
an incredible top of the curl get off. He went on to compete at the
European stops of the tour however having a new wife and baby kept Zach
from the Jetwaves 10th anniversary event, he finished the season with
a showing at Pismo. He missed the European stops this year also due
to a job change and learning to be a Great Dad. But he was entertaining
the Brasil stop and certain to see everyone in California were he was
eager to get back in the rankings.
Zach was an avid outdoorsman and a very loving father
and soon to be husband. His ambitions drove a successful career in technology/electronics
manufacturing and of course Freeriding. His compassion for friends as
well as others typified the bashful,yet happy character that he was
known for. He was always willing and often the first one to help others.
It is a Loss for all of us
He is survived by his Mother, Father, Labrador retriever
MAX and his 11 month old son...... Mason Waddle.
Further information regarding services will be provided
soon as available.
Mark Docwok Matsuda
SlowBio-Tech L.L.C.
'The Brains behind the KOLORS'
Portland, Oregon
