The founder of Hells Angels infamous motorcycling club, Sonny Barger, has died aged 83.
Sonny Barger founded the motorcycle club in San Bernardino, California way back in 1957, and has been a legendary member for 65 years.
Sadly, his time as a Harley Davidson-riding outlaw has come to an end. In 1983, Barger was diagnosed with cancer, but, despite this, he continued to smoke three packs of cigarettes a day, which resulted in him having to have his vocal cords removed. He continued to battle with his health until his final days.
News of his death was confirmed by a post on Facebook, in it, the biker had written a short passage for when the time came when he had to say goodbye to his fans. In the post, he said his life was “filled with adventure” and spoke of the “amazing club” and the people in it.
“If you are reading this message, you’ll know that I’m gone. I’ve asked that this note be posted immediately after my passing,” the Facebook post read. “I’ve lived a long and good life filled with adventure. And I’ve had the privilege to be part of an amazing club.
“Although I’ve had a public persona for decades, I’ve mostly enjoyed special time with my club brothers, my family, and close friends.”
“Please know that I passed peacefully after a brief battle with cancer,” he wrote. “But also know that in the end, I was surrounded by what really matters: My wife, Zorana, as well as my loved ones.”
He concluded his pre-written post, telling his followers and biker buddies: “Keep your head up high, stay loyal, remain free, and always value honor. Sonny HAMCO.”
Barger had been in trouble with the law quite a few times over the years and made a name for himself as the granddad of the most notorious motorcycle gang in the world.
He was even arrested and served time behind bars multiple times, once for possession of narcotics and a weapon, and then for conspiracy to injure a rival gang member, with cops finding guns and explosives he was allegedly going to use against them.
Many fans have shared their tributes to the legend on social media, with one Twitter fan writing: “RIP Sonny Barger Club politics aside, you’ve got to respect what he started. His anti-authority sociopath tendencies & love of bikes spawned a whole new rebellious lifestyle the world over. Personally having lived the 1% club life, I feel respect for the man & the icon he became.”
Another wrote: “RIP Ralph ‘Sonny’ Barger. An Absolute Legend in his own time. A pioneer, a visionary man that we will never see the like of again. You will be sadly & very much missed Mr. Barger. MLLH&R.”
The biker reportedly died peacefully surrounded by the most important people in his life.
Rest in peace, Sonny Barger.