There are so many endearing stories out there about entertainer Jimmy Damon.

There’s the one about how he receives countless requests for charity events, and when he receives these calls he never asks “How much are they paying?” and instead asks, “What can I do?” or “What do you need?”

Then there’s that Damon has performed for every Chicago mayor in memory, and how after seeing him sing at Navy Pier, the late Mayor Harold Washington left with a big smile, saying, “Entertainers like Jimmy Damon have helped maintain Chicago’s image as a swingin’ town.”

Or how ’bout the time Damon showed up to support fellow performers Beckie Menzie and Denise McGowan at the first Monday Night Live at Petterino’s in 2007, wearing a T-shirt from his old Monday Night Live days at the Playboy Club.

“We laughed and I told him that I only steal from the best,” recalled McGowan, who recently wowed the crowd at Petterino’s fourth anniversary party.

Then there’s the anecdote about actor Bill Murray, who when at Second City often dropped into That Steak Joynt to catch Damon’s last set. Inspired by Damon, Murray created Nick the Lounge Singer for “Saturday Night Live.”

Fables about Damon, a Streeterville resident, truly go on and on. But I have the greatest Jimmy tale of all.

It was March 2009, and I had moved into hospice with my mom, who was dying of cancer. During her lengthy illness, many people asked if they could do anything, and Jimmy, who I’ve known for years, was one of the few whose offer I accepted.

When he walked in to the Midwest Hospice and Palliative Care unit in Skokie, my mom was in a deep sleep. Jimmy started singing, and soon my surprised mother opened her eyes and smiled wide. For the next hour, Jimmy turned our sad world into a sing-a-long of laughter, joy, and musical magic. My mom died a week later, still raving about him.

As you can see, Jimmy’s both a wonderful entertainer and a dear friend. That’s why I’m thrilled he’s being honored at the Chicago Cabaret Professionals’ 13th anniversary gala, “You and the Night and the Music,” Oct. 16, at Park West, 322 W. Armitage Ave.

“I know of no one in Chicago’s entertainment scene that has been a stronger advocate for live entertainment,” said McGowan, the event’s co-host with Joan Curto. “He has played every room — most of them gone — and reminded people what is so great about live music. He has encouraged younger talent, led the cheers for established acts and always, always been supportive of other singers.

“His enthusiasm for performing and for his audience has never dimmed,” added McGowan, also a Streeterville resident. “That’s why Jimmy deserves this award and all the accolades that this city, and every person who has heard him sing and enjoyed his amazing banter, can pay him. He is one of a kind, everybody’s pal and completely irreplaceable.”

Besides Damon, being feted too is Ann Hampton Calloway. They’ll perform, as will more than 30 cabaret performers including Beckie Menzie, Shelley MacArthur, Nan Mason and Carla Gordon, who reminded me that for 40 years, Damon has donated his time and talent for Chicago birthday celebrations, holiday commemorations, and civic gatherings.

“This man who humbly refers to himself as a ‘saloon singer,’ has played the Empire Room, Mister Kelly’s and venues all over the world,” Gordon said.

Hope to see you there — it’ll be a fabulous night. Because whether it’s on the big stage or in a quiet little hospice room, Jimmy Damon is one class act.

Tickets are available at www.etix.com, by calling (800) 514-3849, or in person at the Park West box office.