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Following news of local TV icon Huell Howser's death on Monday came word the beloved broadcaster did not want any sort of memorial service to mark his passing. However, recognizing Howser's special place in the hearts of Angelenos, L.A. City Councilman Tom LaBonge is organizing a public gathering in Griffith Park for fans to honor the unique Tennessean who made L.A. his home.
KNX's Claudia Peschiutta tweeted info about the just-planned event, which will take place Tuesday afternoon:
#LA Councilman @TomLaBonge says memorial for #HuellHowser at 4p on 1/15 at Griffith Observatory. Parking/shuttles at Greek Theatre. @knx1070
— Claudia Peschiutta (@ReporterClaudia) January 9, 2013
In response to concerns Howser did not want such an event to take place, Peschiutta reports LaBonge is aware of Howser's wishes and has a very basic vision for the gathering: "Tom concedes Huell didn't want a memorial. I think that's why they're keeping it simple, remarks and watching the sunset," she tweets.
Details regarding Howser's death have not been made public. The 67-year-old best known for his colorful explorations of California's characters and locales on independent TV died early Monday morning in Palm Springs of natural causes.
UPDATE: LaBonge's office sent out additional details about the gathering.
WHEN:
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
3:30 P.M. Gather at the steps of Griffith Observatory
4:00 P.M. Remarks
5:07 P.M. Sunset Salute
WHERE:
Steps of the Griffith Observatory
2800 East Observatory Road, Los Angeles, CA 90027
LaBonge remarked: "Huell had a tremendous enthusiasm for California landmarks like the Griffith Observatory. And now we must say goodbye to our own California landmark, Huell Howser."