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With deep regret and condolences to his family and friends, your Massachusetts Motorcycle Association was saddened to learn of the passing of our lifelong supporter, friend, and past Treasurer, Karl Thober.
Karl was a true freedom fighter in every sense of the word. A proud Navy Veteran, he brought that same energy and passion to your Massachusetts Motorcycle Association during his many years of service as our Treasurer as well as to Animal Charities and his local community in Framingham, where he was a longtime resident.
Winner of the MMA's 2019 Harley-Davidson Bike Raffle,Karl was at his summer home in Wells, Maine when he received the phone call telling him he'd won. As with so many others, Karl's first response was, "you're kidding me, right?". Once the shock started to wear off and he caught his breath, Karl was more concerned with what was easiest and would be the most beneficial to the MMA. He mentioned taking the bike, selling it and giving anything he made back to the MMA as a donation - an offer we appreciated but politely declined.
A life member of the Massachusetts Motorcycle Association, Karl served 11 years on the MMA Board-of-Directors as the organization's Treasurer. Becoming a life member in 1978, Karl had remained a very strong supporter of the organization, attending MMA events and functions well into the late 2000's until retiring to Florida in the winter and Maine in the summer. Karl became a member of both State's Motorcycle Rights Organizations to support them as well.
"A longtime member and friend of Karl's contacted us on Sunday to tell us of his passing," said Doc D'Errico, Massachusetts Motorcycle Association Chairman, "once we passed along the word, the outpouring of well wishes has been overwhelming. I remember meeting Karl, and speaking with him at last year's Bike Raffle party on the phone - he was such a gentle person, but you can hear the spark and the fire in his soul." "He was so happy and life was so good for him when we last spoke after he won the bike last year," added Dave Condon, past MMA Chairman and Ex-Officio, "he was a great, passionate, and honest guy too, and will be so very sorely missed."
Karl suffered for many years with Bladder cancer and like so many things he did, it was a valiant fight that is the stuff of admiration. He will be missed by his family and friends, and by your Massachusetts Motorcycle Association. Two of his many lifelong passions were his Harley-Davidson Motorcycles, and the fight for freedom.
Due to the COVID-19 restrictions, the funeral services and remembrances will be private.
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