Rick Trehearne would have been proud.
The longtime Santa in the North Okanagan Motorcycle Toy Run for Santas Anonymous Society was honoured at this year's event which took place Sept. 8.
Riders revved their engines from the Kalamalka Lake Lookout and over to Lumby in memory of Trehearne, whose ashes were also scattered around the community.
"We had well over 200 people there, and we raised $7,000," said Santas Anonymous president Perry Wainwright.
A number of toys were also collected, which the society gives out to parents and caregivers in need looking to celebrate their child's birthday or Christmas.
But the funds raised make a real different in "keeping the doors open and paying the rent," said Wainwright.
It was an emotional event for many, including Trehearne's daughter Jani Drew, who came to town for the ride.
"The Toy Run was a heartwarming experience, and a great send off for my dad. He had such a big impact on my life and I followed his footsteps in many areas: military police, bylaw enforcement, volunteer management, and mostly, a love of motorcycles and tattoos!"
Trehearne was Santa on the run for more than 15 years, with his little sidecar with Rudolph.
Wainwright had planned to make a speech dedicated to Trehearne, but "I just kind of choked right up on that one."
In the end the 36th annual Toy Run was one of the best rides in terms of riders and funds raised that Wainwright has ever been part of.
"I was glad we were able to dedicate this one to him," Wainwright said. "He's the one who kept it going and organized it.
"He came on board around 2000 and he got Santas the first building, the basement beside the funeral home, and then he found us our current location, which we've been at for well over 20 years now."
Donations are still being accepted and can be brought by the office Tuesday mornings at #2 4320 29th St.
Drew and Wainwright thank everyone, from the merchants who donated door prizes, to the riders and volunteers.
"Thank you to all who made the ride happen," said Drew. "Vernon is a better place for families and children because of each one of you."
