Curt Haden--a Local Hero

I read the article on Curt Haden, Trabuco Canyon local hero (July 5), and I am writing to add to that tribute.

I had known Curt for many years and am deeply saddened at his passing, as are all of his many friends. Curt was a kind, cheerful, honest and generous person. He often helped many less fortunate people, friends and strangers alike.

Curt’s great enjoyments in life were motorcycles, volunteering as a crossing guard and, especially, being Santa Claus for the local children. The children of Trabuco Elementary knew Curt was really Santa who was working as a crossing guard during the off-season. During the Christmas season, Curt would don his suit and spend hours in Emory’s store talking with children.

I took my infant son down to see him last Christmas, and he showed me the banner presented to him by the parents, teachers and children of Trabuco Elementary. It was a white sheet with “We Love You, Curt” and signatures painted all over it. It meant the world to Curt, and I feel it represents the kind of person he really was.

Someday, I’ll show my kids pictures of Curt in his Santa outfit and tell them I was a close personal friend of Santa Claus. We’ll really miss you, Curt.

GARY OSHIRO

Buena Park