Dr. Marc Abrams unexpectedly passed away Wednesday at the age of 58. A successful physician who was a lover of history and classical music, he was known in these parts—affectionately—as the “Walking Man of Silver Lake.” Every day he walked about 14 to 20 miles, along Hyperion, Rowena, Silver Lake Boulevard, and Sunset.
Silver Lake offers countless treats to its residents. Aside from the hills, eclectic architecture, cafes and restaurants—and yes, the reservoir itself--we had the daily sightings of Dr. Abrams, furiously walking, reading a paper or magazine, shirt usually off, revealing a sinewy chest with no trace of body fat. Like many people, I never spoke to him. I have him a sheepish “Hi” a few times, but that was it. And now he’s gone.
Last night we went for the 4 mile walk around the reservoir. We saw a few makeshift memories, which were touching. One of them included a few newspapers and flowers. Another had a black and white photo of him with candles.
A
memorial walk is scheduled for noon on Sunday, starting at Silver Lake Boulevard and Moreno, near where he lived. I hope I can make it.
