If he was living on 8th off 45th, he didn't have any money. Spit in any of three directions and you'll hit either the freeway or a very busy arterial. It's not a ghetto, but you'd starve trying to sell house paint in that neighborhood.
Then I guess he didn't save or invest his money and quit making it. Too bad ---I never understand why people who have a lot going for them have to end this way.