41°
NORWALK, Conn. Herman China, a crossing guard at Tracey Elementary School in Norwalk, has died, according to Norwalk Police Sgt. Lisa Cotto.
China, 76, was readily visible to motorists heading down North Avenue as he stood on the corner of Camp Street at the traffic light, waiting to guide children. He had been a crossing guard at the school for more than seven years, and was impressed that the kids recognized him when he was out and about, such as at the Dunkin' Donuts on West Avenue.
"It's like a job," he said of being a crossing guard. "I'm doing the benefit of the public, of the kids. If they don't see me out here, they'll be looking for me."
He was retired from Norden Systems and moved to Norwalk from South Carolina in 1961. He enjoyed gardening as a younger man, and missed his wife, Ruth Gallman China, who died in August.
A wake for China will be held at 9 a.m. Saturday at the Baker Funeral Home, 84 S. Main St., Norwalk. A funeral will follow at 10 a.m.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Norwalk and receive free news updates.
