To the family of Danny:
Danny was a regular visitor to the downtown Cedar Rapids Public Library. As employees, we all were familiar with him. I enjoyed stopping to say hello to him when he was in. On evenings when I worked, I'd stop and sit next to him and we'd chat for a few minutes. I learned his name was Danny from another patron, and so could then greet him by name, which he seemed to appreciate. He was always respectful, had stories to share, and liked to have a laugh.
Some days, he would come in and sit in the den area, listening to a ball game on his radio. Other days, he would sit along the windows with a view out to Greene Square and the Library Plaza, watching all the comings and goings. This past Tuesday evening, he was joined by a younger version of himself - a 30-something-year-old man who seemed to look up to Danny, or to at least appreciate his camaraderie. I hadn't seen Danny for a couple of weeks, and noticed he was looking really unwell. I asked him how he was doing, and said he wasn't looking so great. He replied with something I couldn't make out, and I asked him if he had someplace to stay that night. He said that no, he didn't, and could I help with that, because he'd tried a couple of places with no luck. I called the shelter services number, but did not locate an available place for him. The younger guy said they'd figure something out.
I was very sad to hear of Danny's passing on Friday. He will be missed. Gentlemen like Danny are tough as nails, in some ways, but bodies are only human. I admired that he seemed to live his life on his own terms, in spite of his afflictions and ailments. I'm sorry for your family's loss.
Sincerely,
Heidi Hartke
