Ruth Cirzan

As Monsignor Malone's mobility seems to become more of an issue for him, Bob Honzik observed in a conversation with Monsignor that he was interested in getting a scooter to assist in getting around in the Fitzgerald Hall on the Little Rock Diocese's St John's Center.  Bob did some research and subsequently had a discussion with Ed Cudworth about the options available to assist Monsignor.

Overhearing this conversation, knight Dan Murphy immediately thought of his former card playing friend and brother knight, Frank Cirzan, who died in late 2008.  Frank had remained very active in his later years by running his battery-powered scooter around the neighborhood.  Dan approached Frank's widow, Ruth, to learn the status of the inactive scooter.  Ruth was willing to donate it to Monsignor, but cautioned that it needed some work to make it workable.

Dan recruited his golfing buddy and former Air Force Thunderbird mechanic, Scott Krantz, to pick up the scooter with his trailer and determine the feasibility of reconditioning it for service.  Meanwhile, Bob checked with the Knights of Columbus Council leadership to pay for the repairs, if the cost was reasonable. His request was approved with the understanding that the scooter would remain in the facility for use by its residents after Monsignor Malone no longer needs it.  The money will come from the 50/50 fund.  After purchasing two new batteries and making a few adjustments, Scott was tooling up and down his driveway on the scooter to be sure it was functioning properly and safely for Monsignor's use.  It passed the test.

Standing behind Monsignor (l-r): Dan Murphy, Scott Krantz, and Bob Honzik.

Subsequently, Bob set a appointment with Monsignor Malone to bring the scooter on Saturday evening, October 28.  Bob Honzik, Scott Krantz, Dan Murphy, and John Bodensteiner delivered the scooter to Monsignor and gave him an orientation on its use, which included using the elevator to get to the facility's chapel and kitchen.  He was very pleased with its functionality and ease of use in his environment.

Before leaving Monsignor for the evening, the visitors (with the Texas A&M and Razorback game in the background) received a tour of Monsignor's apartment, whose previous occupant was Bishop McDonald.  During the conversation, Monsignor talked about his friendship with Jerry Jones.  He also showed a photo on his phone taken with Johnny 'Football' Manziel.  He sure has his contacts!  He also shared some of his future pastoral commitments as well as a planned trip to Idaho in the near future. 

He thanked the knights, wished them a safe journey, and gave them his blessing.

Pictures can be seen in Photos.