Bittersweet farewell to Huffo the Clown

When I moved to Rolling Meadows almost 60 years ago I became a part of the Herald, first as a subscriber, then a contributor and even a part-time employee in the "once a week" days.

Over the years you have been very kind to Don Klemp and his alter ego, Huffo the Clown. Printing my letters, my poetry and stories about my entertaining, one of your reporters even helped me name my clown persona. So my first thanks goes to the Herald!

On April 2nd, 54 years to the day of Huffo's start, he and I had a heart attack, surviving thanks to the Rolling Meadows paramedics and Northwest Community Hospital. Thanks to them!

Since I am now 87 years old, I will go on singing at day care centers but the time has come for Huffo to retire. But, if you'll permit it, not before I thank the thousands of children, now parents and grandparents, I've been allowed to watch grow up.

Also thanks to Rolling Meadows and all its mayors, especially my friend Tom Rooney. And St. Colette's, Cornfest, Terry Moran Day, Diamond Fest, the Golden Years Council, our museum, the veterans, NWSRA, Special Olympics and 53 Fourth of July parades. Too many thanks to give; from Arlington Heights to Geneva, West Dundee to Des Plaines, etc.

A last thanks to the PEP Party of Palatine who started it by asking me to clown for them. The biggest thanks to my family who allowed - no encouraged - me to continue doing it.

If you print this I will be grateful. If not, thanks for all the times you did!

Thanks from the retired Huffo. And,

Don Klemp

Rolling Meadows