IN LOVING MEMORY
To our Rides to Remember loved ones,
The unexpected passing of Bryan Bolhuis has left us deeply saddened. A devoted family man and car enthusiast, Bryan believed strongly in Rides to Remember’s mission and dreamt of starting a similar charity in Florida. He hoped to give local children and families a thrilling, unique experience that helped them forget their day-to-day struggles.
In Bryan’s honor, his wife Jeanne and their children have generously established a Celebration of Life sponsorship for our Track Day this September, through which Bryan’s values will be carried forward for years to come.
In Jeanne’s words, Bryan was born with his love of cars. Before he had his license, he often raced go-carts with his brother, just to be behind a wheel. His family built their own racetrack at their home, where they drove from sunup to sundown. As his 16th birthday approached, Bryan worked multiple odd jobs to save for his first car: a 1972 Monte Carlo, which he bought as soon as he was able. Later, Bryan also channeled his interest into running his own car detailing business, which earned a stellar reputation. Customers often said their car was cleaner after visiting him than it was brand new.
As a child, Bryan hung a Ferrari poster on his bedroom wall. With unwavering support from Jeanne, his childhood aspirations became reality as they acquired several Ferraris. Bryan had a special place in his heart for the 458 model; each glance in the garage or drive through town was a legitimate fantasy come true. Ever magnanimous, Bryan gave rides to anyone who asked, eager to share the happiness the car brought him.
In fact, Bryan always shared his passion widely – racing, collecting, maintaining, traveling, and talking shop with friends and family. Bryan’s son, Zander, and daughter, Jada, inherited his enthusiasm. Bryan and Zander spent uncountable time over the years, bonding over repairing, browsing, and admiring the machines. When Zander could beat him to naming any car they saw from afar, Bryan knew he had succeeded. Jada and Bryan often went on “car dates” to their favorite restaurants or root beer stands. Stunningly skilled behind the wheel, Jada could drive the Ferrari paddle shifter like a race car.
Bryan understood the thrill of shared joy and the healing power of fun. He shared his wealth with everyone he knew, bringing delight to children and families going through the darkest times of their lives.
Although he wasn’t able to launch the charity he hoped for, Bryan’s legacy will shine in every act of kindness done in his memory. Thanks to the generosity of Jeanne and their children, the joy and hope Bryan brought to so many will carry forward in every life touched through Rides to Remember.