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Services slated for Dechau
Every cyclist's worst fear was realized for Jon Dechau on the evening ofSeptember 13. Dechau, 33, was killed after being struck from behind bya motorist. The accident occurred in Lima, New York, about 20 miles southof Rochester.The Livingston County sheriff’s office said that Dechau was riding westbound on the shoulder of route 20 approximately two feet to the right of the white line. A sheriff’s spokesman said a westbound vehicle driven by Sharon Cameron, 61, crossed the white line and struck Dechau from behind at approximately 45-50 mph, and Dechau died at the scene.
Cameron could not provide an explanation to police as to why her vehicledrifted from the travel lane to the shoulder. She freely submitted to ablood test as part of the accident investigation, and
police do not believe she was under the influence of alcohol or drugs.Results of the investigation will determine if charges will be filed againstCameron.Dechau was a champion cyclist who began racing with the Genesee ValleyCycling Club in 1989. His cycling accomplishments included winning numerousmedals at the Empire State Games and State Championships, competing inthe 2000 Olympic trials, and two top-20 finishes in the US National TimeTrial Championships. In late 2000 he signed to ride as pro for the ill-fatedNoblehouse team, before turning his attention to family and work in morerecent years.A man of deep Christian faith, he leaves his wife Debbie, 9 year oldson Tyler, and new born baby Lillian Page.A funeral is planned for 11 AM on Monday, September 18th. Zion FellowshipCanandaigua, NY 14424 www.zionfellowship.net.
