John K. Lehman, founder and director of Lehman Trikes recently passed away on January 5, in Arizona, the company sadly announced. The suspected cause of death was a heart failure brought on by an embolism. He was 60 years old.
John is survived by his wife Linda, son Quinten, daughter Leann, three surviving sisters – Gladys, Linda, Carol, and three grandchildren.
John was one of the most recognized, admired and respected individuals in the motorcycling industry, and is considered by many as the father of the modern trike. He was most recently inducted into the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum Hall of Fame in 2009.
In 1993, Larry Strilchuk, a long time friend, joined John to form Lehman Trikes, Inc. “Today is crushingly sad,” said Strilchuk, “John Lehman was my lifelong friend and an amazing partner. Through good and bad times, John’s gracious nature, love of family and friends, and positive outlook touched everyone who came in contact with him. He was dearly loved and will be sorely missed.”
Lehman Trikes, Inc. had recently announced a Letter of Intent from an investment group relating to the sale of the company. The passing of Mr. Lehman will not materially affect that endeavor, according to the company.