Tom, Laguna Beach’s Brook Street Cat, also known as “Fred” and “Bob” in his earlier years, passed away peacefully Tuesday, Dec. 4 after almost 21 years befriending surfers and tourists at the Brook Street stairs.
He was a legend at Brook Street, with Chuck at the Sandpiper, and with locals in the neighborhood. In his later years, he was cared for by Julie and Mark Brisley.
Local artist Walter Viszolay painted a statue of him, which will be placed near Brook St. Sunday, Dec. 23, at noon.
I moved to the corner of Brooks and Brangwyn in the late 90’s. My cat Henry ran away shortly thereafter. Looking at Tom’s obituary, I was shocked and still belive that I am looking at Henry. I hope so, as I thought the coyotes got him.