Hill Philanthropist Steve Cymrot Dies

Capitol Hill donor and business owner Steve Cymrot died this weekend after he was recently hit by a car, according to media reports.

Cymrot, a longtime Hill resident, died Saturday. He was injured on Nov. 19 when he was hit by a car on East Capitol Street near 4th Street NE, The Hill Is Home reported.

The Hill real estate investor ran the used and rare book shop Riverby Books at 417 East Capitol St. He served on the board of directors of the Hill Center, and helped found the Capitol Hill Community Foundation and the Capitol Hill Association of Merchants and Professionals.

“The Capitol Hill community has lost a giant,” City Councilman Tommy Wells said in a statement. “Steve will be missed by so many, like me, who have always counted on him to be there with sage advice, gentle humor or even a good book to help us make it through the next day, week or year.

“I will always cherish the times I spent with Steve and regret their ending too soon. My heart goes out to his wife and family, who I know will so ably sustain his memory and great work,” Wells continued.

Cymrot is survived by his wife, Nicky; son and daughter; and four grandchildren, according to Hill Rag, which was first to report the philanthropist’s death.

Police did not immediately respond to an inquiry about charges against the driver.