JIM MACKENZIE--1968-2008

The Denver motorcycling community lost a leading member on Sunday, June 22, 2008.

Jim “Hacksaw” MacKenzie, 39, was killed in a motorcycle accident at the intersection of Santa Fe Drive and Hampden Avenue.

MacKenzie, a Littleton resident, was most recently a business partner in the Rocky Mountain Pipeline and Lucky 13 Tattoo Studio.

A Colorado native, Jim graduated from Arapaho High School in 1987. He then joined the United States navy in 1989, serving until 1993 when he was honorably discharged. During his service, Jim was served at various duty stations, and was awarded a good conduct medal, air crew wings, a meritorious commendation, and qualified as a marksman with a pistol and M-16.

Upon leaving the Navy, Jim returned home to Littleton.

On October 31, 1999, he opened rocky Mountain Pipeline with his friend Joey Black. The pair opened a second store in 2004, as well as the Lucky 13 Tattoo Studio.

Genuinely a happy man, Jim never failed to take an opportunity to ride his motorcycle, or make a new friend. It is difficult to recall any time when he was involved in any kind of personal conflict—friends have never known him to have an “enemy.” A gentle soul, Jim was a naturally gifted artist who was generously interested in other people, and did what he could to lend a hand. He touched the lives of everyone he met, and was loved by all.

Jim was also known for his fierce pursuit of life. It is fair to say he let very few days pass that he did not live to the fullest.

Jim was also uncompromisingly devoted to his family and his Scottish heritage.

Jim’s sudden death has been a shock to everyone who knew him, including those who had only passing dealings with him. Jim made that kind of impression on people.

Jim MacKenzie will be sorely missed. The world is a lesser place without him.
Jim is survived by his father, Neil, mother, Ritzi, and sister Gina.

More than 200 friends gathered at Hudson Gardens for a memorial service on June 26, demonstrating just how much he was loved.

A benefit bike event is being planned for later this summer to raise money to contribute to a memorial fund. Visit www.jim-mackenzie.last-memories.com for details and a tribute to Jim.