From a press release issued by Yamaha Motor Corp., U.S.A.: The families and friends of Yamaha were deeply saddened at the sudden loss at age 53 of longtime senior factory service representative Tom Parr on Monday, January 7, after a brief illness. A part of the Yamaha Motorsports team since 1984, Parr has been one of motorsports’ most respected advocates for quality service and customer satisfaction in the Northeast region. Parr’s technical experience, combined with his unflappable good nature and perceptive wit, made him a welcome advisor in dealer service departments and a popular instructor with technicians. His expertise and likeable demeanor could always be counted upon to help solve difficult issues facing Yamaha dealers and customers. His presence at Yamaha and in the industry will be greatly missed. Tom Parr is survived by his wife, Jill, with whom he celebrated 23 years of marriage in December, and three children, Zachary, Alexander, and Zoey.