G,,,,,,,,,, I had a similar experience with probably one of the most legendary of Baltimore icons about 20 years ago at a gas station in Cockeysville. I got out to pump my gas and took a double take to the man on the other side of my pump. He was finishing up and heading up to pay. I said to myself, " I think that is Johnny Unitas." Like you, not wanting to geek out, I simply pumped my gas and went up to pay just as John was heading back to his car. As I neared him, and was limping to to injuring my back and knees dirtbike racing, he stopped ME. Then he said, " MAN, it looks like your back is really bothering you" I replied, " It's that noticeable?" He said, "Yup.... You're too young to have a bad back." I thanked him and said, it was nice meeting him and that my mom was a big fan, I will have to tell her I met you."
From that day till even now, I will praise Mr. Unitas for the kind manner he treated me with. If one hears any stories of the man, there will be many that tell of his kindness to strangers and friends alike.