RBH will deeply miss our volunteer and friend, George Hing (Ng George L. Hing), who died unexpectedly earlier this year. We will always remember George rushing around the Chestnut Street Shop, diagnosing bike issues, and working diligently to maximize the potential of every bike. George resided in the Carlisle area and generously gave his time to LifeCycle (a New Life Community Church program) since its inception, as well as RBH.
A former educator, George was known to be humble, introspective, and student-focused. No matter the situation, he was constantly seeking to improve himself and those around him. He carried that growth mindset with him to RBH. A dependable, loyal person, George traveled weekly from Carlisle to Harrisburg’s Allison Hill to volunteer in our shop.
RBH founder, Ross Willard, recalls that his first experience with George was working with him to obtain donated bikes from the bike share program at Dickinson College. Ross remembers him as cool, calm, and collected — always wanting to “fix bikes right.” Over time, George became RBH’s ambassador to bicycle co-ops outside South Central PA, taking RBH trinkets as gifts when traveling. After visiting other bike shops, George reported to RBH leadership what they were doing and recommended ways in which our operations could improve.
Additionally, George was instrumental in establishing Carlisle’s Northside Ride — a community ride starting at New Life Community Church and continuing for 3.4 miles to Memorial Park/Hope Station. He convinced borough officials that this ride should be held because it would benefit families with its different bike drills and skills courses for children. Before commencing each Northside Ride event, George and RBH volunteers would check bikes and make any last-minute repairs. The Northside Ride has now existed for many years, and riders sorely miss George’s presence.
George’s enthusiasm and knowledge of bicycles has left a positive impact on the people and organizations he helped. His presence is greatly missed at RBH.