New York City * -- The skateboard community is saddened by the passing of one of the few professional skateboarders that New York could call its own, Harold Hunter *.

He was most well known for his involvement with Zoo York * Skateboards, Rockstar Bearings *, and his role of "Harold" in the 1995 * movie "Kids".

"He used to have this saying, 'Legends never die,"' said his sister, Rebecca Atkins.

Harold was "an original Zoo Yorker and ambassador representing NYC the world around," read a statement on Zoo York's website. "Harold Hunter will be deeply missed by the Zoo Crew, Family, Friends and his world of fans. New York City will never be the same without him."

A viewing/wake for Harold will be held at the Guidetti Funeral Home at 33 Spring Street, between Mott street and Mulberry Street;. Services will be held on Wednesday February 22nd, through Friday February 24th, from 2pm to 6pm. Organizers encourage and welcome all to come and pay respects.

Dave Ortiz was a friend of Harold's. "I used to take care of Harold like his brother, one of the many brothers in New York that he had" said Ortiz, who also intends to publish a book of Harold's quotes about life, philosophy, and girls. Quotes of Harold's that might appear in the book include:

"Zoo York is a propaganda that provides food and water for me." -- Harold, 4/19/99

"There were mad legends in the room, and I'm a legend, so I had to bust" - Harold about his skating in the Longest Ollie contest at the ASR Trade Show in 2002 *.

According to IMDB, Harold was born on April 2nd, 1974 and passed away on February 17th 2006.

A Harold Hunter Fund has been set up to offset the funeral and final arrangement expenses. According to Ortiz, all collected funds are slated to go 100% to Harold's brother, Ronald Hunter, to pay for the funeral expenses.

Reportedly the family has received some "soulful donations", but is in need of additional funds. Donations may currently be made through paypal.com to haroldhunter@rockstarbearings.com, and checks or money orders payable to "Rockstar Bearings/Harold Hunter Funds" can also be donated in person M-F Noon-7PM at Dave's Quality meat, 7 East 3rd St, NYC 10003.

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