CHARLIE CINNAMON 1921-2016

   South Florida theater legend, Charlie Cinnamon, passed away this morning. He enjoyed a long run, 94 years, 333 days. He always loved a full house and on his last day his was filled with  family, friends, and lots of love.

   He was youngest of eight children growing up in the Bronx.  Charlie served in Patton's Third Army in WW II.  This morning I saw a handsome picture of him in his uniform. He got a degree in journalism from N.Y.U.
and headed to South Florida. 

   Charlie spent over sixty years promoting the arts in here.  His house is filled with "champion of the arts" honors.  

   Even in his nineties (just months ago) you could spot him in a tuxedo welcoming guests to his latest event.  My neighbor also started the Grove's popular art festival 53 years ago.  
     
   Charlie had stroke in late September. It left him unable to move or speak, something you'd never expect of a talkative press agent. His niece told me yesterday he had made it clear that he would never want to live under such circumstances.  

   Charlie was a friend and a neighbor. When they brought him home from the hospital three weeks ago I checked on him everyday. Speaking with his eyes and slight head movements he could acknowledge our words. Sometimes, as friends were leaving his bedside, he managed to move his mouth just enough to form a kiss. 
   His limited gestures also let us know how helpless he felt, how unhappy he was in his debilitated condition. Maybe his departure today was for the best.

   He took his final bow this morning with dignity and grace. There wasn't a dry eye in the house. 
  
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  A memorial service will be held on Sunday, Nov. 6, at 10 a.m. Riverside Memorial Chapel in Aventura, 20955 Biscayne Blvd. 33180 .