TERRE HAUTE —
It’s been close to two months since Fred Poore died as a result of a May 16 fire at the Garfield Towers apartments.
His friends — and there are many — celebrated his life and positive influence during a candlelight vigil Saturday night in the parking lot at one of Poore’s favorite local restaurants.
“I really think Freddie knew how much we loved him,” said Dawn McCalister, a waitress at Cackleberries, at Seventh and Poplar streets. “We told him all the time.”
Poore died of medical complications after a fire started on the sixth floor of Garfield Towers. Terre Haute Police are still investigating the cause of the fire, and a $5,000 reward has been offered for information leading to the arrest and the conviction of the person who set the fire in the lounge area.
Poore apparently stumbled into the area of the fire and became incapacitated by it. He is not a suspect in its cause. He died at an Indianapolis hospital on May 21.
McCalister purchased close to 200 candles for the vigil. The staff of Cackleberries adored Poore, who was a regular customer and had a knack for remembering names. Poore was disabled, but lived on his own and held a job at McDonald’s. He was a regular sight in the downtown area as he walked to and from work, rode the city bus, and dedicated himself to his job.
The vigil began with an opening prayer, the passing and lighting of candles, and was followed by speakers who shared special memories and stories about Poore.
The song “Jesus Loves Me” was also sang, because it was one of Poore’s favorites, McCalister said.
The ceremony closed with a recitation of the “Lord’s Prayer.”
Even though it has been several weeks since Poore died, McCalister said his memory is living on in the community.
Many of those at the vigil hoped that a tip will be given to police soon to solve the arson case, and hopefully clear up questions about how Poore was injured.
Anyone with information about the arson is encouraged to call Terre Haute Police arson investigator Lt. Edward Tompkins at (812) 244-2207, or to leave a tip at Crime Stoppers by calling (812) 238-STOP.
Reporter Lisa Trigg can be reached at (812) 231-4254 or lisa.trigg@tribstar.com. Follow her on Twitter @TribStarLisa.
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