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Kermit Arrington, much admired, dedicated to serving his community, has passed

By Howard B. Owens

Kermit Arrington, longtime town justice in Le Roy, an athlete, World War II veteran and one of the most respected men in Genesee County, has died.

The lifelong Le Roy resident was 86.

Arrington served as town justice for more than 20 years. For 34 years prior to becoming justice, he worked for the Le Roy Public Works Department, serving as supervisor for 20 years.

A graduate of Le Roy High School, where he was a standout in football, Arrington joined the military after graduating and during World War II served in the 758th 64th Tank Division.

In 1989, he was named Le Royan of the Year.

As an adult, Arrington continued to play sports, starring as the QB for the All Le Roy semi-pro football team. He also umpired and ref'd youth baseball and football.

He was a life member of Excelsior Hook and Ladder and volunteer with the Le Roy Fire Department.

Funeral arrangements are being handled by Falcone Family Funeral & Cremation Service.  Further details pending.

Photo: via LeRoyFootball.com.

Ed Hartgrove

I first met Kermit 40+ years ago, and I will miss him. He was a good friend, but, I'm pretty sure, hundreds of Le Royan's could make that claim. Le Roy has lost one of its finest.
"Good-Bye, my Friend".

Jun 17, 2013, 9:52am Permalink
bud prevost

I'm proud to make that claim as well, Ed. I remember years ago, I was working at the Marriot in Henrietta, and Kermit would come visit occasionally. He was a charismatic individual who made friends easily. Our town has lost a great guy, RIP Kermit.

Jun 17, 2013, 10:28am Permalink
Wendy Atkinson

I had the honor of meeting Kermit when we first moved to LeRoy in 1981. I grew up from addressing him as Mr. Arrington, to him saying call me Kermit, and me replying yes sir, but very rarely saying Kermit. Watching him and my Mom set his brother Jimmy up for a "Is that Bill Cosby?" would cause me to laugh so hard it could bring tears to my eyes! One of my best and warmest memories would be the day I had the privilege of Kermit being the one who performed my marriage!!! He insisted on hugs not handshakes, I insisted on sending him home with 4x as much food as he wanted! Heaven has received another another amazing soul!! I will love and miss you dearly, Mr. Kermit Arrington!!

Jun 17, 2013, 11:02am Permalink
Mardell Lamb

A great man, indeed. Kermit left his mark on many hearts. What a joyful man and full of the dickens! He will certainly be missed by all. I worked with his sister, Phyllis & what a hoot she was as well. Thoughts and prayers go out to his family during this difficult time.

Jun 17, 2013, 1:25pm Permalink
Lorie Longhany

A great friend to so many. I enjoyed him tremendously and will miss him. One of my favorite anecdotes was Kermit bringing my mother whatever fruit -- rhubarb, berry, cherry, peaches, apples were in season and asking her to put the fruit between two pie crusts for him. She always happily obliged him.

Jun 17, 2013, 11:02pm Permalink
Kyle Couchman

I didnt know Kermit personally but my wife volunteers for Crossroads House and she met Kermit there that night. All I can say is the man left an impression on her...

It seems he went as he lived, kindly and peacefully. I admire and commend those who volunteer at any Hospice but especially Crossroads for they do, what most of us cannot. Not for lack of ability but, the strength of the heart. God Bless Kermit and his family and all of you who knew him well...

Jun 18, 2013, 6:26am Permalink
Phil Ricci

Kermit was a wonderful man. I had the pleasure of speaking with him a few times, and he was always so kind, candid and funny.

His impact on his community are the kind of examples that we should all strive to.

Jun 18, 2013, 11:02am Permalink
Jennifer Hart

He is best known for his love of ALL women, his intoxicating smile. His gentle nature. His friendly hellos. I'll never forget when we moved into our house, he was the first neighbor to introduce himself. He was our Wilson, with the hidi ho neighbor. Would always slow down and wave when he saw you on the porch or in the yard....yep slow down. He was always known for going over the speed limit. you know 10 miles per hr...lol. Love you my favorite neighbor. You'll always and forever be in my heart. RIP!!!

Jun 18, 2013, 5:40pm Permalink

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