In the heart of Minneapolis, the hum of bike tires on pavement has long symbolized freedom, passion, and connection for the Patak family. But today, that sound carries a heavier weight.
Miles Jacob Patak, 38, was killed on June 8 while biking at East 42nd Street and Hiawatha Avenue, after colliding with a northbound light rail train. His father, Curtis Patak, now holds onto memories, the bond they shared, and the love they both carried for life on two wheels.
“Miles loved life,” Curtis said. “And he loved his bike. From the time he was a child, he was happiest when he was pedaling.” For Curtis, a lifelong cyclist who earned the nickname “Coach” from the many riders he mentored, cycling was more than a sport—it was a way of life.
He introduced his son to biking early, bringing him along on tours from Minneapolis to Michigan, and later, to mountain biking and BMX competitions. “We grew up together at the races,” Curtis recalled.
“I had a tandem with a kiddie crank, and Miles would ride with me, even before he could reach the pedals properly. Everyone at the races watched him grow up. It was our thing.”
That shared love for cycling became the foundation of their relationship—an anchor through every chapter of life. As Miles matured, so did his devotion to the sport. He became known for his quick wit, sharp mind, and boundless energy.
He brought that same joy and intensity to his role as a father. “Him as a father, that was one thing I was very proud of,” Curtis said. “He really wanted to be a good dad. That meant everything to him.”
Now, that legacy continues through Miles’ own son, who Curtis hopes to teach the same lessons Miles once learned at his side. “I’ve got wisdom to pass on,” he said, his voice equal parts pride and pain. “To my grandson, and to anyone who rides—especially in the city.”
Curtis urges all riders to stay alert and make safety a priority. “I always say, don’t wear headphones when you ride,” he explained. “And don’t expect drivers—or even trains—to see you or stop for you. You’ve got to ride like you’re invisible, like no one can see you. It’s not about blame, it’s about survival.”
Miles’ death marks the 19th fatality involving the Blue Line light rail since it began operating in 2004. Of those, five were bicyclists. While Metro Transit continues to investigate the specifics of what happened that night, Curtis is channeling his grief into action.
He’s planning a memorial bike tour in honor of his son—an event that will not only celebrate Miles’ life but also serve as a reminder of the importance of cycling safety. “I don’t want him to just be a number,” Curtis said. “He was so much more. He had dreams, he had a family, and he had a spirit that touched so many people.”
The upcoming memorial ride will follow a route familiar to both Miles and Curtis, a trail etched with memories of shared laughter, challenge, and triumph. “This ride is for him,” Curtis said, “but it’s also for all of us—for anyone who’s ever found peace, freedom, or connection on a bike. That’s how Miles lived. And that’s how I’ll honor him.”
Though his life was tragically cut short, Miles Jacob Patak’s story lives on—in the pedals that turn, the trails that stretch ahead, and in the hearts of those who ride in his memory.
