Friends and family are mourning a Lyons business owner remembered for his generosity and work ethic after he was killed in a motorcycle crash on Mother’s Day in Cayuga County.
New York State Police said 35-year-old Branden J. Paradise of Lyons died after a two-motorcycle collision involving an SUV Sunday afternoon at the intersection of State Route 31 and Brutus-Mentz Townline Road in the town of Mentz.
According to his obituary, Paradise “passed away after a tragic motorcycle accident on Mother’s Day” and will be remembered as “a very kind and giving person who looked to make his life and others’ lives better every day.”
“Branden will be remembered for his heart and his work drive, owning his own business,” the obituary states.
Troopers said the crash happened shortly after 4 p.m. when a 33-year-old Auburn woman driving a 2020 Nissan Pathfinder entered Route 31 from Centerport Road and allegedly failed to see two westbound motorcycles that had the right of way.
Both motorcycles struck the passenger side of the SUV, according to investigators.
Paradise and another rider, identified as a 36-year-old Lyons man, were airlifted to Upstate University Hospital with serious injuries. Paradise later died at the hospital. The second rider remained hospitalized as of Monday night.
Police said an 18-year-old passenger in the SUV suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to Auburn Community Hospital.
State police said the SUV driver remained at the scene and has cooperated with investigators. Authorities said there was no indication alcohol or drugs played a role in the crash.
Paradise is survived by his parents, several brothers, longtime girlfriend Jamie Rogers and her two children, along with many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
Calling hours are scheduled for Tuesday, May 19 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Boeheim-Pusateri Funeral Home in Lyons. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, May 20 at 11 a.m., followed by burial in South Lyons Cemetery and a reception at the Lyons Rod and Gun Club.
The crash investigation remains ongoing.
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