What started out as a joke became a reality for the family of Bill Standley of Mechanicsburg, Ohio. The last wish of a man that loved escaping for a good ride on his motorcycle, became an unforgettable farewell for family and friends of the 82-year old.

Bill Standley had a passion for getting out and exploring life. From working cattle ranches when he was young, to making it to 49 of the 50 states, Standley did settle down to raise a family. But the lure of the open road was never far from his mind. That is why his greatest possession was his 1967 Harley-Davidson.

As Standley continued to age, he soon realized he had a problem: who was going to inherit his beloved Harley? Facing the problem of having two sons, one of his daughter's jokingly said, "Oh Dad, just be buried with it."

Shortly after that conversation, and with some hesitation from his family, Standley finally realized that that was exactly what he was going to do.

With the help of his two sons, he built a plexiglass casket large enough to bury both him and his beloved Harley. Because of the size of his casket, he also purchased three burial plots, all next to his wife.

On a gray wintery day, Bill Standley was granted his last wish.

Accompanied by family and friends on what would be his last ride, this unforgettable farewell from mourners became an extraordinary send-off. Bill Standley went out in style doing what he loved, riding his Harley right up to the pearly-gates.

Bill Standley passed away at the age of 82, leaving behind 4 children, 9 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren.

 

 

 

 

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