Canney’s presence after accident reassuring

I have enjoyed reading many splendid tributes to Don Canney, former Cedar Rapids mayor over four decades. Each testimonial wisely enumerated a long list of accomplishments “King” Canney was responsible for piloting.

However, it is not his municipal achievements I recount as fondly as the events surrounding an accident in Cedar Hills on a warm summer evening in 1978. Astoundingly, a wanton car swerved off the road and crashed into the house next door to us. Within minutes, a crowd of stunned neighbors gathered around the accident scene, surveying the surreal damage. Incredibly no one was hurt. Even more extraordinary was the surprising arrival of Mayor Canney from his home a dozen blocks away. He didn't have to be there, but his simple reassuring presence demonstrated an unwavering allegiance to friends and community. He stayed long after the cleanup began, talking to everyone who greeted him. He was passionate, yet plain-spoken, humble yet strong. I remember thinking he was as authentic a leader as you will ever meet.

In the political history of Cedar Rapids, Canney was unquestionably one of our civic giants. But as I reflect on that accident scene over 30 years later, it occurs to me he exemplified more than accomplishment. He represented who and what we thought we were as citizens.

I cannot think of his departure from us without experiencing a spasm of pure loss.

John Hegarty

Swisher