I can’t believe it - Evel Knievel passed away. It’s almost like a whole era goes with him, you know? It feels to me, very similar to when Mr. Rogers died. Completely and utterly selfish of me, but, it’s like - ‘Wait, that’s my childhood - you guys can’t die! That’s part of my history - don’t take it away!’

I mean, just check him out, ya’ll:

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Isn’t he the coolest? I remember getting so excited when he was going to be on TV doing another stunt - it was so awesome - and so totally scary!! And check this out:

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….cool - even as an old guy! How many of us can say that our grandpas were that cool? Not many, probably. Although I did think my grandpa was pretty darn cool! He ate hot sauce by the spoonful and he smoked a pipe - and to this day I love the smell of a pipe - it totally takes me back! But even still - I don’t think I can say he was as cool as Evel Knievel!

It’s so sad, and my heart and prayers go out to his family. The News Tribune says:

Knievel’s death was confirmed by his granddaughter, Krysten Knievel. He had been in failing health for years, suffering from diabetes and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, an incurable condition that scarred his lungs.

Evel - you will be missed! You definitely made my childhood more exciting! And just think - no more broken bones!! Yea! I never understood how you could continually get back on your bike after all those injuries - yikes!

God bless you, Evel Knievel!