The Jalopy Journal

**Acme Speed Shop** · 06-19-2012, 11:17 PM

ROADSTER WRECK ON THE 101

I will never forget reading this on the HAMB. This was the title of the thread posted last year on the morning we were heading up the coast to West Coast Kustoms in Santa Maria. I knew in my gut that it was my friend Eric Doran and his wife that were in the wreck but it took hours to get confirmation.

It wasn't until we were driving north later in the morning morning that I got the call from one of the first responders on scene confirming it was Eric in the wreck and that he was gone.

Eric was part owner of a little restaurant called "Eat Chow" here in Costa Mesa and Cynthia and I met him one Saturday when we drove the 36 over there and parked in front of the restaurant to have lunch. Eric came blasting out of the front door and wanted to know all about the car. He told us about the roadster pick up he had in his garage that belonged to his friend Skip and how he drove it all over 'cause Skip didn't use it much. We qickly figured out that we knew a lot of the same guys in town and a friendship was born. It was only a few months later that he moved into the back of the ACME shop so he could work on his projects.

Eric was one of those guys that you became fast friends with. He was full of life and enthusiasm and was always up to do anything. We met his wife and talked about them joining us for the drive up the coast to the show on Memorial day, which was only a few days away. We were going to leave after the morning traffic and make a leisurely drive up. Eric had different plans and wanted to get up to Santa Barbara for breakfast before heading up to the show and a tour around the wine country of the central California coast. If he had only gone with us he would still be here today. But his life ended on that drive.

We put together a little affair last year to honor our him and a bunch of people turned out. It made us all feel better and it was exactly what Eric would have wanted. Now we are doing it again, but this time we are adding a few things into the mix. There will be coffee in the morning, a cruise up PCH and live music and a food truck when we get back to the starting point. Come on out and celebrate a life well lived.

We miss you Eric. Will you ride along with us?

Don's Hot Rods · 06-19-2012, 11:24 PM

I remember that thread. So sorry for the loss of your good friend. He will be at your cruise in spirit, you can bet on that.

Don

deto · 06-19-2012, 11:38 PM

What a great idea to honor a friend. Bump

Bad Bob · 06-19-2012, 11:39 PM

I'm planning on attending again this year. I only met him once,but he seemed like a nice guy who loved cars. Feel free to check out my pic's from last year. Great turnout for a special guy.
Hope this stays an anual event.

Roadsterpu · 06-20-2012, 12:18 AM

Gonna try to make it. Got to see what the wife has planned for me.

**Church** · 06-20-2012, 12:22 AM

I'll do my best to be there.

SOHC427 · 06-20-2012, 12:23 AM

Great idea, to keep Eric in your hearts!!

**TexasSpeed** · 06-20-2012, 12:35 AM

This just proves the loyalty of the California traditional hot rod/kustom community is certainly something that absolutely cannot be rivaled. RIP Eric.

Bump for a worthy cause.

**Da Tinman** · 06-20-2012, 12:39 AM

I wish I was closer, I'd be there even though I never met him.

These posts: http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/s...8&postcount=11 http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/s...&postcount=127 , still choke me up.

**Deuce Daddy Don** · 06-20-2012, 01:14 AM

I responded to your thread last year, What ever happened to the driver of that Utility bed pickup driver?
My son came by the wreck just after it happened & told me of the big pickup that ran over the top of the RPU.
Did the wife come out OK?(since last year?)

Roadsterpu · 06-20-2012, 01:47 AM

I talked to the wife and we have something going on that day. Sorry, John. Hope you all have a great cruise.

**Jeff Norwell** · 06-20-2012, 05:13 AM

Your a good man John Mearns.

**Acme Speed Shop** · 06-20-2012, 08:46 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Deuce Daddy Don

I responded to your thread last year, What ever happened to the driver of that Utility bed pickup driver?
My son came by the wreck just after it happened & told me of the big pickup that ran over the top of the RPU.
Did the wife come out OK?(since last year?)

As for the driver of the utility truck; there was an on going investigation but I don't think charges were filed. It was determined that the RPU Eric was driving was in sound working order and that it was no fault of Eric's.

Thanks for asking.

66Newport · 06-20-2012, 08:59 AM

Man, I wish I was closer. Although I didn't know him, I think it is an awesome thing you are doing.

**daddy_o's_diner** · 06-20-2012, 09:08 AM

I remember the thread and the "sick in the pit of my stomach" feeling I had following it that day.

I commend you John, for honoring a friend and keeping his memory alive with the cruise.

.

zep058 · 06-20-2012, 09:23 AM

Sorry for the loss of your friend What a great thing you are doing for his memory

cool37 · 06-20-2012, 11:24 AM

John...I'll be there.

**Acme Speed Shop** · 06-20-2012, 05:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bad Bob

I'm planning on attending again this year. I only met him once,but he seemed like a nice guy who loved cars. Feel free to check out my pic's from last year. Great turnout for a special guy.
Hope this stays an anual event.

Glad to hear that you will be there Bob. Try to pass the word arround so we can get a few of your buddies to come down too. Thanks again for the support.

philly the greek · 06-21-2012, 12:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jeff Norwell

Your a good man John Mearns.

X2 my friend . That's the same day as my sons wedding , hopefully if you do this again I can participate . Hope you have a good response , and I'll raise a glass to your late friend .

**Limey Steve** · 06-21-2012, 12:14 AM

Good luck for a successful day remembering a good friend is a wonderful thing to do , Sorry John we'll be away otherwise you know we'd be there.

Drewfus · 06-21-2012, 12:19 AM

bump, for Eric, Skip, and Eric's family & friends....

Props to you John for your support,

Drewfus

Throttle Merchants · 06-22-2012, 01:22 PM

Great idea. John. This deserves a bump.

RoadDevil13 · 06-22-2012, 01:33 PM

Wish I could be there.... RIP and in memoriam! Good luck with the cruise

cool37 · 06-25-2012, 05:47 PM

Btt

**Acme Speed Shop** · 06-26-2012, 08:11 PM

Hey everyone I really hope you will show up and help us make this a good day. We have a band playing and a food truck to keep you fat and happy.

Be there a few minutes early and grab a coffee from EAT CHOW before we go for the cruise up PCH.

Last year we had about 75 cars and a dozen bikes; let's shut down Costa Mesa with too many for the streets to handle. Where else can you find a free car show with food and music.

I will have the new Jalopy Journal books for sale too so come down and get one.

GassersGarage · 06-26-2012, 08:24 PM

The wife and I are in.

**Acme Speed Shop** · 06-26-2012, 11:22 PM

Bump for the night crew. Can I get a head count - pipe up if you are coming!

Bad Bob · 06-27-2012, 12:21 AM

I'm heading over with JustplainJ and Chevy54.

Bad Bob · 06-27-2012, 12:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Acme Speed Shop

Hey everyone I really hope you will show up and help us make this a good day. We have a band playing and a food truck to keep you fat and happy.

Be there a few minutes early and grab a coffee from EAT CHOW before we go for the cruise up PCH.

Last year we had about 75 cars and a dozen bikes; let's shut down Costa Mesa with too many for the streets to handle. Where else can you find a free car show with food and music.

I will have the new Jalopy Journal books for sale too so come down and get one.

HEY!!! Who you callin happy?

dullchrome · 06-27-2012, 09:04 AM

Last year was a great turn out and a really good time. See you all there !

**Acme Speed Shop** · 06-27-2012, 09:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bad Bob

HEY!!! Who you callin happy?

See you there "Happy". I'm glad you are driving down for our little cruise.

cool37 · 06-27-2012, 09:47 AM

i'm in...bringing about three other buddies with cars.

60'coupe · 06-27-2012, 10:06 AM

John, I can't see the flyer at work, what day and time is this ?
Rob

**Acme Speed Shop** · 06-27-2012, 10:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 60'coupe

John, I can't see the flyer at work, what day and time is this ?
Rob

The event is this Saturday at 8:30 am in Costa Mesa. We meet up and end up at EAT CHOW RESTAURANT 1802 Newport Blvd Costa Mesa, CA.

There will be music and food.

Saxman · 06-27-2012, 10:34 AM

I think honoring your friend like this is great. I wish I could be there to be part of it.

**Acme Speed Shop** · 06-27-2012, 10:50 PM

Bump it up. This Saturday!!

I will have Jalopy Journal books for sale-Save on Shipping and buy one at the cruise.

VNTGE41 · 06-27-2012, 11:07 PM

damn ! i was the one that started that thread. it still brings a bad feeling to me. i never met eric but feel like i did just from all the pos remarks. i will def try to make it, but already have previous plans. hope its a huge turnout as im sure eric wouldvd loved

dullchrome · 06-29-2012, 09:02 AM

Bump for a great cruise for a great cause.

roxndoxn · 06-29-2012, 09:22 PM

Time to have some funny and Honor a Friend!

**Acme Speed Shop** · 06-29-2012, 10:38 PM

Tomorrow morning folks! Live music by Los Torindos and one of the best food truck in So Cal. Hope to see you there.

**Gremlinguy** · 06-29-2012, 10:44 PM

Good luck on a great cruise!!

Bad Bob · 06-30-2012, 07:58 AM

Any of you LATE COMERS on the HAMB right now....come on out and support the memory of a great car guy,who just happened to own a resturant.

Leaving in 15mins.....

GassersGarage · 06-30-2012, 02:51 PM

Arrived at 7:00 am when Eat Chow opened. Mr. & Mrs. Acme were already there. Had breakfast and waited for everyone else to show up.

PelleJeep · 07-01-2012, 11:32 AM

Nice story on yesterdays Memorial Cruise in the Daily Pilot today:

http://www.dailypilot.com/news/tn-dp...,3442106.story

06-19-2012, 11:17 PM	#1
Acme Speed Shop Alliance Member Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: so cal Posts: 1,319	Roadster wreck on the 101-R.I.P. Eric Doran ROADSTER WRECK ON THE 101 I will never forget reading this on the HAMB. This was the title of the thread posted last year on the morning we were heading up the coast to West Coast Kustoms in Santa Maria. I knew in my gut that it was my friend Eric Doran and his wife that were in the wreck but it took hours to get confirmation. It wasn't until we were driving north later in the morning morning that I got the call from one of the first responders on scene confirming it was Eric in the wreck and that he was gone. Eric was part owner of a little restaurant called "Eat Chow" here in Costa Mesa and Cynthia and I met him one Saturday when we drove the 36 over there and parked in front of the restaurant to have lunch. Eric came blasting out of the front door and wanted to know all about the car. He told us about the roadster pick up he had in his garage that belonged to his friend Skip and how he drove it all over 'cause Skip didn't use it much. We qickly figured out that we knew a lot of the same guys in town and a friendship was born. It was only a few months later that he moved into the back of the ACME shop so he could work on his projects. Eric was one of those guys that you became fast friends with. He was full of life and enthusiasm and was always up to do anything. We met his wife and talked about them joining us for the drive up the coast to the show on Memorial day, which was only a few days away. We were going to leave after the morning traffic and make a leisurely drive up. Eric had different plans and wanted to get up to Santa Barbara for breakfast before heading up to the show and a tour around the wine country of the central California coast. If he had only gone with us he would still be here today. But his life ended on that drive. We put together a little affair last year to honor our him and a bunch of people turned out. It made us all feel better and it was exactly what Eric would have wanted. Now we are doing it again, but this time we are adding a few things into the mix. There will be coffee in the morning, a cruise up PCH and live music and a food truck when we get back to the starting point. Come on out and celebrate a life well lived. We miss you Eric. Will you ride along with us? __________________ ACME SPEED SHOP Automotive Art & Apparel check us out at; www.acme-speedshop.com Last edited by Acme Speed Shop; 06-19-2012 at 11:29 PM.

06-19-2012, 11:24 PM	#2
Don's Hot Rods Old School HAMBer Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: florida Posts: 6,023	Re: Roadster wreck on the 101-R.I.P. Eric Doran I remember that thread. So sorry for the loss of your good friend. He will be at your cruise in spirit, you can bet on that. Don

06-19-2012, 11:38 PM	#3
deto Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Ventura County CA Posts: 1,730	What a great idea to honor a friend. Bump __________________ check out 4F Fabrication! 4ffab.com and find us on Instagram and Facebook

06-19-2012, 11:39 PM	#4
Bad Bob Old School HAMBer Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: O.C. Baby Posts: 23,265	Re: Roadster wreck on the 101-R.I.P. Eric Doran I'm planning on attending again this year. I only met him once,but he seemed like a nice guy who loved cars. Feel free to check out my pic's from last year. Great turnout for a special guy. Hope this stays an anual event. __________________ "I ain't nobody,DORK!" Bad Bob's BBQ 2013 shirts! Now taking orders!!! PM me... Last edited by Bad Bob; 06-20-2012 at 12:28 AM.

06-20-2012, 12:18 AM	#5
Roadsterpu Senior Member Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: Long Beach, CA Posts: 1,126	Re: Roadster wreck on the 101-R.I.P. Eric Doran Gonna try to make it. Got to see what the wife has planned for me. __________________ WARNING! My sense of humor may offend you. If it does, I suggest you get over it. INTOLERABLES

06-20-2012, 12:22 AM	#6
Church Alliance Member Join Date: Nov 2002 Location: South Bay Posts: 2,303	Re: Roadster wreck on the 101-R.I.P. Eric Doran I'll do my best to be there.

06-20-2012, 12:23 AM	#7
SOHC427 Member Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Elizabeth, CO Posts: 777	Re: Roadster wreck on the 101-R.I.P. Eric Doran Great idea, to keep Eric in your hearts!!

06-20-2012, 12:35 AM	#8
TexasSpeed Alliance Member Join Date: Nov 2009 Location: Amarillo, TX Posts: 4,064	Re: Roadster wreck on the 101-R.I.P. Eric Doran This just proves the loyalty of the California traditional hot rod/kustom community is certainly something that absolutely cannot be rivaled. RIP Eric. Bump for a worthy cause. __________________ '28 Model A Coupster - Project Mattitude

06-20-2012, 12:39 AM	#9
Da Tinman Alliance Member Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: Alexander Il Posts: 3,991	Re: Roadster wreck on the 101-R.I.P. Eric Doran I wish I was closer, I'd be there even though I never met him. These posts: http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/s...8&postcount=11 http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/s...&postcount=127 , still choke me up. __________________ *"They just pissed off the angriest guy in Wayland" (from the lovable Dumb Whore.)*

06-20-2012, 01:14 AM	#10
Deuce Daddy Don Alliance Member Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Bend,Oregon Posts: 3,021	Re: Roadster wreck on the 101-R.I.P. Eric Doran I responded to your thread last year, What ever happened to the driver of that Utility bed pickup driver? My son came by the wreck just after it happened & told me of the big pickup that ran over the top of the RPU. Did the wife come out OK?(since last year?) __________________ " TOPLESS FOREVER"

06-20-2012, 01:47 AM	#11
Roadsterpu Senior Member Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: Long Beach, CA Posts: 1,126	Re: Roadster wreck on the 101-R.I.P. Eric Doran I talked to the wife and we have something going on that day. Sorry, John. Hope you all have a great cruise. __________________ WARNING! My sense of humor may offend you. If it does, I suggest you get over it. INTOLERABLES

06-20-2012, 05:13 AM	#12
Jeff Norwell Art Editor Join Date: Aug 2003 Location: Palookaville Posts: 11,790	Re: Roadster wreck on the 101-R.I.P. Eric Doran Your a good man John Mearns. __________________ "I like HOT RODS." "Now, go drive your Volvo...safely..." http://www.jeffnorwell.com http://drawnandquarrtered.blogspot.com

06-20-2012, 08:59 AM	#14
66Newport Old School HAMBer Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: Shady Shores, TX Posts: 2,549	Re: Roadster wreck on the 101-R.I.P. Eric Doran Man, I wish I was closer. Although I didn't know him, I think it is an awesome thing you are doing. __________________ 1Timothy 1:15 Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst.

06-20-2012, 09:08 AM	#15
daddy_o's_diner Alliance Member Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: Midland, Michigan Posts: 2,135	Re: Roadster wreck on the 101-R.I.P. Eric Doran I remember the thread and the "sick in the pit of my stomach" feeling I had following it that day. I commend you John, for honoring a friend and keeping his memory alive with the cruise. . __________________ The Chemical City Coupe Bonneville inspired '32 ford 5-Window Build thread http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/s...d.php?t=727871

06-20-2012, 09:23 AM	#16
zep058 Member Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Melbourne, Australia Posts: 581	Re: Roadster wreck on the 101-R.I.P. Eric Doran Sorry for the loss of your friend What a great thing you are doing for his memory __________________ Supremes for the win

06-20-2012, 11:24 AM	#17
cool37 Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: SoCal Posts: 1,744	Re: Roadster wreck on the 101-R.I.P. Eric Doran John...I'll be there.

06-21-2012, 12:14 AM	#20
Limey Steve Alliance Vendor Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: Whittier Posts: 1,466	Re: Roadster wreck on the 101-R.I.P. Eric Doran Good luck for a successful day remembering a good friend is a wonderful thing to do , Sorry John we'll be away otherwise you know we'd be there. __________________ www.limeworksspeedshop.com English By Birth American By Choice

06-21-2012, 12:19 AM	#21
Drewfus Senior Member Join Date: Nov 2001 Location: Newcastle, Oz-trail-ya.... Posts: 2,371	Re: Roadster wreck on the 101-R.I.P. Eric Doran bump, for Eric, Skip, and Eric's family & friends.... Props to you John for your support, Drewfus __________________ "To win, you must first... be prepared to lose...."

06-22-2012, 01:22 PM	#22
Throttle Merchants Grenade Inspector Join Date: May 2008 Location: Southern california Posts: 183	Re: Roadster wreck on the 101-R.I.P. Eric Doran Great idea. John. This deserves a bump. __________________ Throttle Merchants Magazine http://www.throttlemerchantsmag.com

06-22-2012, 01:33 PM	#23
RoadDevil13 Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2004 Location: Henderson,NV Posts: 1,823	Re: Roadster wreck on the 101-R.I.P. Eric Doran Wish I could be there.... RIP and in memoriam! Good luck with the cruise

06-25-2012, 05:47 PM	#24
cool37 Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: SoCal Posts: 1,744	Re: Roadster wreck on the 101-R.I.P. Eric Doran Btt

06-26-2012, 08:11 PM	#25
Acme Speed Shop Alliance Member Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: so cal Posts: 1,319	Hey everyone I really hope you will show up and help us make this a good day. We have a band playing and a food truck to keep you fat and happy. Be there a few minutes early and grab a coffee from EAT CHOW before we go for the cruise up PCH. Last year we had about 75 cars and a dozen bikes; let's shut down Costa Mesa with too many for the streets to handle. Where else can you find a free car show with food and music. I will have the new Jalopy Journal books for sale too so come down and get one. __________________ ACME SPEED SHOP Automotive Art & Apparel check us out at; www.acme-speedshop.com

06-26-2012, 08:24 PM	#26
GassersGarage Old School HAMBer Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Torrance, Ca Posts: 4,558	Re: Roadster wreck on the 101-R.I.P. Eric Doran The wife and I are in.

06-26-2012, 11:22 PM	#27
Acme Speed Shop Alliance Member Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: so cal Posts: 1,319	Re: Roadster wreck on the 101-R.I.P. Eric Doran Bump for the night crew. Can I get a head count - pipe up if you are coming! __________________ ACME SPEED SHOP Automotive Art & Apparel check us out at; www.acme-speedshop.com

06-27-2012, 12:21 AM	#28
Bad Bob Old School HAMBer Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: O.C. Baby Posts: 23,265	Re: Roadster wreck on the 101-R.I.P. Eric Doran I'm heading over with JustplainJ and Chevy54. __________________ "I ain't nobody,DORK!" Bad Bob's BBQ 2013 shirts! Now taking orders!!! PM me...

06-27-2012, 09:04 AM	#30
dullchrome Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: SoCal Posts: 1,300	Re: Roadster wreck on the 101-R.I.P. Eric Doran Last year was a great turn out and a really good time. See you all there ! __________________ God invented whiskey so the Irish wouldn't rule the world.

06-27-2012, 09:47 AM	#32
cool37 Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: SoCal Posts: 1,744	Re: Roadster wreck on the 101-R.I.P. Eric Doran i'm in...bringing about three other buddies with cars.

06-27-2012, 10:06 AM	#33
60'coupe Member Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Long Beach, California Posts: 884	Re: Roadster wreck on the 101-R.I.P. Eric Doran John, I can't see the flyer at work, what day and time is this ? Rob __________________ *Suck it hippy SUCK IT !* Huell Howser

06-27-2012, 10:34 AM	#35
Saxman Senior Member Join Date: Nov 2009 Location: Fallbrook, California Posts: 1,997	Re: Roadster wreck on the 101-R.I.P. Eric Doran I think honoring your friend like this is great. I wish I could be there to be part of it. __________________ 1954 Design Company Hot Rod Shift Knobs

06-27-2012, 10:50 PM	#36
Acme Speed Shop Alliance Member Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: so cal Posts: 1,319	Re: Roadster wreck on the 101-R.I.P. Eric Doran Bump it up. This Saturday!! I will have Jalopy Journal books for sale-Save on Shipping and buy one at the cruise. __________________ ACME SPEED SHOP Automotive Art & Apparel check us out at; www.acme-speedshop.com

06-27-2012, 11:07 PM	#37
VNTGE41 Member Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: l.a. Posts: 595	Re: Roadster wreck on the 101-R.I.P. Eric Doran damn ! i was the one that started that thread. it still brings a bad feeling to me. i never met eric but feel like i did just from all the pos remarks. i will def try to make it, but already have previous plans. hope its a huge turnout as im sure eric wouldvd loved

06-29-2012, 09:02 AM	#38
dullchrome Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: SoCal Posts: 1,300	Re: Roadster wreck on the 101-R.I.P. Eric Doran Bump for a great cruise for a great cause. __________________ God invented whiskey so the Irish wouldn't rule the world.

06-29-2012, 09:22 PM	#39
roxndoxn Grenade Inspector Join Date: Nov 2009 Location: santa maria california Posts: 111	Re: Roadster wreck on the 101-R.I.P. Eric Doran Time to have some funny and Honor a Friend!

06-29-2012, 10:38 PM	#40
Acme Speed Shop Alliance Member Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: so cal Posts: 1,319	Re: Roadster wreck on the 101-R.I.P. Eric Doran Tomorrow morning folks! Live music by Los Torindos and one of the best food truck in So Cal. Hope to see you there. __________________ ACME SPEED SHOP Automotive Art & Apparel check us out at; www.acme-speedshop.com

06-29-2012, 10:44 PM	#41
Gremlinguy Alliance Member Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Loveland, CO Posts: 406	Re: Roadster wreck on the 101-R.I.P. Eric Doran Good luck on a great cruise!! __________________ Looking for 32 Nash parts. Please contact me if you have or know of any.