ARDMORE, Okla. (KXII) – Robert Cox was killed in a two vehicle crash while riding his motorcycle at the intersection of highway 70 and Carter street in Ardmore Monday evening. Cox, known as “Tank” to many, was a well known member in the community with a passion for riding.
“He rode every day, it didn’t matter if it was 30 degrees outside or raining, he was still on two wheels,” friends Cliff Thompson and Deanna Mayo said.
Family an friends remember “Tank” as someone who left a lasting impression on nearly everyone he met.
“If he only had $20, he’d give it to you, if you’re hungry, he’d buy you food. That’s just the kind of man he was,” wife Becky Cox stated.
“He was the hero that I always looked up to,” son Robert Cox said. “He would have done anything for anyone at any given moment, and that’s what I aspire to be and what I aspire to do,” Cox added.
“Friends are the family that you pick up along the way, and Becky and Tank were that for us, they became more than customers, they became family,” Biker Heaven Owner Angel Hill stated.
“You meet very few people that actually become part of you, its a heartfelt thing, and Tank was one of those few people,” Thompson added.
A $10 dinner fundraiser will be held at Biker Heaven in Ardmore this Saturday, with all proceeds going to benefit the Cox family to cover funeral costs and other necessities.
In supporting the family, they are also hoping to raise awareness for the importance of motorcycle safety.
“People in cars don’t really watch for motorcycles, people are texting, people are in a hurry,” Biker Heaven owner Angel Hill stated.
“We’re looking for other people on bikes constantly, but everybody else needs to too, weather’s getting nice, bikes are coming out,” Thompson added.
Friends and family say they would also like to see changes, such as improving street lighting at key intersections to improve visibility and prevent another tragedy.
“They really need to get that fixed, so this doesn’t happen to another family member,” Becky Cox added.
The Cox family benefit will begin at 3pm at Biker Heaven in Ardmore Saturday. A memorial keychain will be sold in Robert “Tank” Cox’s memory, and memorial patches will soon be available to purchase at Biker Heaven. Donations are welcome and can be made at the store located on 917 North Washington in Ardmore.
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