Friends and colleagues remember teacher Alonzo "Lon" Farr as someone who went out of his way to make a difference in the lives of others.

Mr. Farr, 60, of Mt. Lebanon, died Sunday of melanoma of the brain and spinal cord.

Mr. Farr was born in Philadelphia, and grew up in Pennsylvania and New York, moving here to start his teaching career.

A Duquesne University graduate with a master's degree in education, he taught fifth and sixth grade in the North Hills School District, and taught education courses and supervised student teachers at Waynesburg University.

Mr. Farr loved bicycling, and for 12 years rode in the MS 150 and Tour De Cure bicycle rides, which raise funds to help people with multiple sclerosis and diabetes.

"He was all about helping other people," said Shelley Farr, his wife of 38 years. "He got so many responses from people with MS and diabetes who were so appreciative. It motivated him to do more and more each year."

Mr. Farr typically raised $4,000 to $5,000 per year for the two races, his wife said. He was grateful for the generosity of friends and others who donated money for the rides, and wrote individual thank-you letters to every donor.

Last year, he had trouble finishing the MS 150 race, but was determined to complete the course, Mrs. Farr recalled. "He wouldn't quit, because people had given him money."

He also enjoyed recreational biking with friends, and spending time with his family and his dog, a beloved Great Pyrenees named Bella.

He was a member of the Monongahela Valley Masonic Lodge 461 and Syria Shrine.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his son, Lon David Farr of Tucson, Ariz., and sister Lona Farr of Macungie, Lehigh County.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. today at Laughlin Memorial Chapel, 222 Washington Road, Mt. Lebanon.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Lance Armstrong Foundation, P.O. Box 6003, Albert Lea, MN 56007-6603