Celebrated Czech writer Vladimír Páral has died at the age of 94. The news came as a shock to many who fondly remembered seeing him regularly in Mariánské Lázně, a town where he maintained a second home. Locals recall Páral as a cheerful and gentlemanly figure. He had a strong connection to the town, even bestowing upon it a loving nickname. His passing marks the end of an era for those who knew him in the spa town and appreciated his presence. Páral’s contribution to Czech literature and his warmth will be dearly missed.