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LeRoy Kemp Obituary
July 24, 1928 -
January 13, 2010
LeRoy A. Kemp, 81, of S. Vanderkarr Rd., Barton, passed away while responding to the aid of others on January 13, 2010. LeRoy was born on July 24, 1928 in Smithboro, NY, a son of the late Olin and Hazel (Thompson) Kemp. He was a graduate of Owego High School Class of 1945 and for many years owned and operated Kemp's Poultry Farm with his family in Barton. On January 13, 1946 in Smithboro, he married the love of his life, Marion Aldrich, and together they have celebrated 64 years of happiness. Always willing to assist in a time of need, LeRoy was a lifetime member of the Tioga Center Fire and Emergency Departments, where he had served as Chief, EMT and Fire Police. In addition, he was Chairman of the Board for the Fire Commissioners and had assisted with the Tioga County Fire Investigation Team. He was a dedicated and well respected fireman who will be greatly missed by his community and his fellow members. LeRoy is survived by his wife, Marion; his daughters and sons-in-law, Susan and Gary Mandrino of New London, NC, Pamela and Richard Mott of Waverly, NY; a son and daughter-in-law, Milton and Nancy Kemp of Barton; brother-in-law, Edward Aldrich; sisters-in-law, Frances Gascon, Nelly Short, Betty Schmidt, Joann Rumsey, Florence Zimmerer and Julie Green; seven grandchildren, Roxann (Matthew) Galster, Karen Stewart, Michelle (Patrick Tart) Grimes, Andrea Grimes, Thomas (Melissa) Kemp, David (Brenda Hubbs) Kemp, and Sarah (Heath Bennett) Kemp; great grandchildren, Andy Garey, Samantha Stewart, Elizabeth, Catherine, Christopher and Benjamin Galster, Victoria Grimes, Kennedy and MacKenzie Hill. Several nieces, nephews and their families also survive. LeRoy was predeceased by his sister, Ella May Bill; and a sister-in-law, Adele Bettis.
Family and friends are invited to attend a period of visitation and time of sharing memories on Saturday, January 16th, from 2-5 p.m. at the Nazarene Church, Route 17C, Owego, NY. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, January 17th, at 2 p.m. at the Nazarene Church with his nephew, Pastor Alan Bill and Rev. William Wells, officiating. Flowers will be provided by the family and memorial contributions are be directed to the Tioga Center Emergency Squad/Fire Dept., PO Box 185, Tioga Center, NY 13845 in loving memory of LeRoy A. Kemp. Memories and condolences may be shared by visiting our website at www.sutfinfuneralchapel.com. Caring assistance is being provided by the Cooley Family of the Sutfin Funeral Chapel, 273 S. Main St., Nichols.
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Memories and Condolences
for LeRoy Kemp
Gary McKee
January 20, 2010
It is with great sadness I learned of LeRoys death. My thoughts are with the family and the TCFD. I worked with LeRoy on emergency calls and in training. LeRoy was such a unassuming man who dedicated his life to helping others, yet not wanting credit for all he did. His motto seemed to be "just do what is right". Although I've been out of EMS and the area for a number of years, I still think of LeRoy and what he meant to the area. God Bless LeRoy and his family.
Carol and Bobby Watkins
January 18, 2010
Marion, Milt, Nancy, Pam, Sue and families - Our deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family, we sincerely wish we were home and could be there with you. My memories of Leroy are so many, most recently a very nice visit at Becky's Diner with both Marion and Leroy, reminising about old times, the poultry farm, the squad, hunting, kids. His passion for helping people anytime day or night was endless. He was there for me and my family several times of which I am eternally grateful. As my previous employer he was kind and generous, always smiling and a joy to work for. Working with Leroy as a former TCFD squad member he handled difficult situations with professionalism, dignity and grace.
I have the feeling there is one more star up in the sky tonight, even though it's far away its brightness and warmth still reaches us here to make the night a little less dark.
As you share your stories and memories of how he lived his life and how very much he meant to so many of us may you find comfort throughout this difficult time. May you also know the deep sympathy and concern that are felt for you and your family. Please remember how much you are in our prayers. He will always be remembered and our friendship cherished.
Carol and Bobby Watkins - Smithboro NY
Bobbi
January 17, 2010
I did not personally know Mr Kemp, but I am deeply touched and saddend of his passing. From what I have read and seen he seems to have been an amazing man. I was at awe when I passed through 17C this weekend and saw all those firetrucks, buses, ambulances, and the American flag in Tioga Center. I was forced to stop and wait for a while and I truely felt blessed for the experience. I shed a few tears for this man that I did not know, but wished I had. My heart goes out to his family, friends, fellow EMT's and Fireman. GOD BLESS YOU FOR ALL THAT YOU DO AND SACRIFICE YOUR LIVES.
George@Joan Parker
January 17, 2010
We are so sorry to loose such a wonderful,caring, dedicated and humble man. We have many memories of delivering eggs for the Kemp family when our sons were young. They also have many good memories as they road the route and delivered eggs. A wonderful giving family you all are. He was always there for our family.
Mary Brink
January 17, 2010
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Nelly Short
January 17, 2010
Our hearts CAN reach all the way to N.Y. to give you a big hug.
We love you, my big sister.
Nelly and Art
MIKE / DIANA JONES
January 17, 2010
TO THE KEMP FAMILY..
LEROY WAS A GOOD MAN , TON'S OF GREAT TALENT & DEVOTION TO THE COMMUNITY HE WAS A HONORABLE MAN.
WITH LOVE AND PRAYERS
MR. MICHAEL & MRS. DIANA JONES
January 16, 2010
"Firemen never die, they just burn forever in the hearts of the people whose lives they saved." -Susan Diane Murphree
Thoughts and prayers to the family.
Corinne Armstrong
January 16, 2010
My heartfelt thoughts and prayers to the family and friends of the Kemp family, as well as the Tioga Center Fire Dept, and those who responded to the call. Mr. Kemps positive attidude, experience, and service to the community will be greatly missed. I'm thankful for the times I was able to learn from such an knowledgeable
member.
Doug & Marlene Sherman
January 16, 2010
January 15, 2010
Marion,Pam,Milt,Nancy and family-Sorry to hear of LeRoy's passing. He will be greatly missed by all that knew and worked with him. I had been out of touch for a number of years but had the pleasure of sawing and re-calling old times with the T.C.F.D this past summer.
Eric & Kelly Hawkins
January 16, 2010
Our deepest condolences to the Kemp family and the Tioga Center Fire Department on the passing of LeRoy. We have been fortunate to know and work with LeRoy on many occasions on calls and in classes. His kind manner and devotion to the community will forever be remembered. His distinct voice on the air when there was a call was always reassuring to hear and will be greatly missed.
January 16, 2010
My thoughts, prayers and deepest sympathy go out to the family and the Tioga Center Fire department. May you find comfort in God during this difficult time. Lori Cronk Newark Valley, NY
Norman Jensen
January 16, 2010
LeRoy, you will always be in our hearts. Your dedication and community spirit was always an inspiration to me. Working with you at the Tioga Center Fire Station was always a pleasure and I could always feel your sense of pride in the service you were providing, the community in which you lived and your family. Your spirituaity, professionalism and kind heart always instilled a confidence in all who knew and served with you. Seldom does the life of any of us mortals have such a lasting effect on those we leave behind.
LeRoy, it was a pleasure to know and work with you and you will always be with us....
Norm Jensen
NYS Forest Ranger, Retired
Patricia Thomas
January 16, 2010
Marion, You and Leroy are the neighbors that the Lord put next to me on Whitcomb Hill. You and Leroy are the personification of Liviticus 19:18.
Both of you have taught well. May the strength of your faith bring you peace and understanding. My prayers and thoughts are with you at this time.
Roberta & Donald Bostwick
January 16, 2010
Our sincerest condolences to all of LeRoy's family. We will miss seeing LeRoy traveling around Smithboro and on the roads of Tioga County, NY either to an emergency or just driving with his wife Marion or to go to a restaurant in the Valley in PA. LeRoy was a wonderful, quiet, kind, considerate man. Seems like we knew him forever. A great loss for the Smithboro area, the Tioga Center Volunteer Fire Department and ambulance squad. Our prayers go out to Marion, Milton, Nancy, Sue, Pam, nephew Alan, along with all the grand & great grandchildren and Marion's family.
Donna Robinson-Goetke
January 16, 2010
My heartfelt condolences go out to the Kemp family. I have many fond memories of growing up and going to the egg farm as a child, but also memories of you coming to our home to help a family member in need. As the mother of a firefighter (who is also a US soldier), I have the utmost respect for those who put their lives on the line to save others. Please know you are in our prayers.~ The Hildebrant/Robinson family.
Steve and Connie Fedorowicz
January 15, 2010
May the memories you have replace the incredible loss you feel at this time.
Our sympathies to your entire family.
January 15, 2010
Dear Sue and family,
The officers, members, and especially "your" EMTs of Genoa Fire/Rescue extend our sincerest condolences for your loss. Our hearts go out to you, to your family, and to our brother and sister firefighters of Tioga Center. The true spirit of volunteerism and dedication, as practiced by Mr. Kemp, is a testament to his life.
Genoa Volunteer Fire Department, Genoa, NY
January 15, 2010
To the Kemp and Bill families,
LeRoy always had a moment to stop and visit in my office or on the street. He came to the aid of our family members many times for which we are eternally grateful.
May your tears of today soon be smiles as you remember his humble gentle ways and his smile as he shared stories of a life well lived.
Debbie and Jan Cole family
January 15, 2010
May God help lessen the sorrow your heart feels at this time. LeRoy was an awesome person to know and live by on Whitcomb Hill. He'll carry on his ability to help even in heaven. God Bless you all.
P.French & family
January 15, 2010
Marion, Milton and Nancy and all the family,
I am saddened to learn of LeRoy's untimely passing, but know he was taken doing what he wanted and enjoyed doing, coming to the aid of someone who needed help. He assisted me and/or my family at least twice that I recall. I also have warm memories of him and of Marion when, as a child, I belonged to and attended the Smithboro UM Church. You both were a positive influence on my walk with the Lord. Thank you, and may God richly bless you all and be very close to you in the days to come.
~Joan Babcock, Owego, NY
Mel & Mary Greene
January 15, 2010
We didn't know your dad in person except thru knowing you and who you are...he must have been a great man...our hearts grip yours and our prayers rise to the God of all comfort...II Cor. 1:3 & :4. So sorry for your loss and God be with your family.
Eric Williams
January 15, 2010
On behalf of the Middlesex Hose Company and Middlesex Valley Volunteer Ambulance Corp, please accept our deepest sympathy during this time.
Candor Fire Company & Auxiliary
January 15, 2010
To the Kemp Family and Tioga Center Fire & EMS '
We are so sorry to hear of the untimely death of a wonderful man as Mr. Kemp. Our hearts and prayers go out to every member of the fire department, EMS and family. It is a sad day in all of our hearts.
January 15, 2010
Nancy, I was sadden to hear of your father-in-laws passing. You and your family are in my prayers. Betty short
January 15, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family, friends, and fellow volunteers of Mr. Kemp.
Spencer Fire Department
Bill Riddleberger
January 15, 2010
The Kemp family, my sincere condolences and sympathy on the lost of your father who gave back to his community through his leadership and dedication to the fire department, He was a wonderful person who made a impact on our society. He will be missed by all in the community. May you find comfort in all the fond memories of Leroy. Bill Riddleberger Surfside Beach, SC
Frank & Carol Webster
January 15, 2010
We are saddened to hear of LeRoy's untimely passing. We have known all of you for so many years and have a lot of great memories with LeRoy and Family. I am very sure that LeRoy will continue to be the best Angle and will be watching over his family. God bless all of you.
Jim & Dee Houseknecht
January 14, 2010
We are so sorry to hear of LeRoy's untimely passing. He was a great leader, mentor and friend and he will be greatly missed. Our deepest sympathies go out to his family and the members of the Tioga Center Fire Department.
Mattydale Fire Department, Onondaga County Station 35
January 14, 2010
Although no words of sympathy
Can ease the loss you bear,
Still may you find
some comfort
In the thought
That others care.
Anna Turner
January 14, 2010
Sorry to hear about your loss..He was a good man with lots of talent..sincerely, Anna Turner
Onondaga County Volunteer Fire Police Association
January 14, 2010
The Officers and Members
of the
Onondaga County Volunteer
Fire Police Association
join in extending
Heartfelt Sympathy
to you and your family at this
Time of Sorrow.
Martin Kopcho
January 14, 2010
My deepest condolences to the Kemp family on the passing of LeRoy. I have been fortunate to know and work with LeRoy on many occasions. His kind manner and devotion to the community will forever be remembered.
January 14, 2010
Our thoughts and many, many prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time. All of us at the Tompkins Regional Center were very saddened to hear of Karen's grandfather, LeRoy passing away. May your many memories bring you comfort.
January 14, 2010
Milton,Sue,Pam and Family:
I was so shocked to read of the tragedy that took your fathers life..
Am sending my condolences of the loss of such an honorable man..Your entire family is so compassionate of others.
God bless you all at this sad time..
Barbara (Santucci) LaDieu
Fort Walton Beach, Florida
Edward Aldrich
January 14, 2010
Leroy is my brother-in-law.He was the finest man you could ever want to meet
Joyce Menard
January 14, 2010
For all the loved ones, family, friends, neighbors and community of my Dearest Uncle Kempy: Let us ALL honor Uncle Kempy for the perfect example of life that he lived and shared. Let us ALL know and cherish his true self as his middle initial...A...represents the Angel he came to be. Let us ALL go within our hearts and feel the love he placed there ..... he is always with us! His angels guided him home and rejoice with his presence now. May we all find comfort in remembering how he graced each of us with his love and compassion. Much Love to ALL!
January 14, 2010
To the Kemp family, we were so sorry to hear about your loss. We have known LeRoy for several years and I had the honor to work with him and along side of him as a Town of Tioga commissioner. His dedication to the community set an example for all of us to follow. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God bless -
Jim and Darlene Morris
Sharon Judge Vescovi
January 14, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
The V.H.Thomas Jr. Family
January 14, 2010
It was our privilege to have had such an upstanding member of the community as our close neighbor during the years we spent on Whitcomb Hill. Leroy's wisdom was counted as one of the many blessings from God, that each of us as a member of the community, will sorely miss. His lifelamp may be dark, but his lifelight still shines.
Annemarie & Dan Howland Family
January 14, 2010
Your family is in our hearts and prayers and the community is devestated by the loss of LeRoy. He was such a giving man and he will be greatly missed. God Bless you all during this difficult time.
Jim and Kim DeSantis
January 14, 2010
Our dearest condolensces to the entire Kemp Family. LeRoy, like his son and grandsons, was ever the public servant. Thank you for your service and we are saddened to see you taken too early.
January 14, 2010
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow. Richford Fire Department
Nancy Jacobs-Breen
January 14, 2010
I was so sorry to hear of LeRoy's passing. LeRoy was my school bus driver, and as a child I always felt safe and protected and in some ways thought of LeRoy as a hero. He was one of the most kind and loving men I've ever known. It doesn't surprise me that he was trying to help another at the end of his life. May God welcome him with open arms. My thoughts and prayers are with the Kemp family.
Swansbroughs
January 14, 2010
our thoughts are with you at is time We have known Mr. Kemp for many years Remember the good times
Tony & Amy Culver
January 14, 2010
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
January 14, 2010
You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers at this time. Please accept our deepest sympathies. Mr. Kemp was well known in the community, and we were blessed to have known him. Eddie & Corky Bostwick @ Huckle's Towing, Waverly NY.
Janet Kline
January 14, 2010
To the Kemp family - We only met Mr. Kemp once, when he came to our aid for a personal farm emergency. He not only helped us with the initial problem, but helped solve another while he was there, and would not take any compensation for his trouble. His selflessness and willingness to help someone he had never met before really stood out, indicating what a special person Mr. Kemp was. God bless you during this difficult time.
Donna Easton
January 14, 2010
Our hearts are saddened by LeRoy's passing. Although we cannot be there, are thoughts and prayers are there with all of LeRoy's family and fire department. God Bless,
Ken and Donna
January 14, 2010
Our condolences to the entire Kemp Family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. The Bellis famlies on Henton Road.
January 14, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
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