RICHMOND, VA (BRAIN) — Retailer Ann “Spike” Toler, a mainstay of the Richmond cycling scene who unexpectedly passed away last week at age 50, will be remembered during a tribute mountain bike ride Wednesday originating at her shop, Coqui Cyclery.
Toler, who had raced mountain bikes for 25 years, opened Coqui — named after a breed of tree frog — earlier this year with business partner/mechanic Clint Kronenberger. Rather than zero in on a turnkey space, Toler opted to refurbish a long-neglected building in Richmond’s Woodland Heights section and help beautify the city she loved.
“We’ve had people who don’t even ride bikes come up and say, ‘We’re so appreciative you’re here. We’re so grateful. You’ve really made this area look better,’ ” Toler told BRAIN before Coqui opened in April.
The circumstances of Toler’s death were unclear, and her family was said to be asking for privacy. She is survived by her parents, Ben and Ann Garrett; husband, Alan; son, Garrett; and brother, Jim.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Ann G. Toler Memorial Fund, Preservation of Bicycle Trails in the City of Richmond, P.O. Box 205, Dutton, VA 23050.
Wednesday’s tribute ride through the James River Park System starts at 5:30 p.m. at Coqui Cyclery, 3416 Semmes Ave. in Richmond.
