DOWNEY - Trude Koll, best known as "Grandma Trude" by patrons and staff at the Downey City Library where she volunteered for more than 20 years, passed away on Jan. 30.Born July 13, 1919 in Germany, she loved children and books, and devoted countless Saturdays reading to children through the library's Read-to-Me program. Koll entertained the children - along with parents and staff - with her stories every Saturday, rain or shine, even if it meant scheduling a Dial-a-Ride. As Koll began to lose her eyesight, she memorized many of her favorite stories, turning them into live performances. One eye gave her particular problems with vision, so she would put a ladybug or butterfly sticker on her eyeglasses to let children know she wasn't able to see out of that eye. Due to health issues, Koll stopped reading at the library five years ago but still stopped by on occasion to say hello.

********** Published: February 2, 2012 - Volume 10 - Issue 42