“The passing of Walter Sondheim, Jr., means the end of an era — an era in which those with leadership, vision and determination could build a great city and chart a course that would help to bring social justice and economic prosperity to our community.

“Walter Sondheim was a giant of a man. He did not seek the limelight, but sought only to do good works. In 1954, he was instrumental in integrating Baltimore City Public Schools. His leadership and vision were instrumental in the Renaissance of Baltimore. From the Inner Harbor to the Charles Center to the Science Center, Walter had a hand in building the city we see today.

“Walter was born at the beginning of the 20th Century, but he had the wisdom and judgment to build a city of the 21st Century. He was a friend, advisor and mentor and I join many, many others in mourning his death.”