There isn't a firefighter in Lorain County, other than those new hires from the past year, who doesn't know Art, and his dedication to serving others. We all knew that if there was a major incident, Art would be there. Whenever the Red Cross Canteen was on scene, Art would be there serving up coffee and hot cocoa during the cold weather times, and cool liquids during the warm weather periods. Art was the one who made it his mission to make sure "his guys" (us firefighters) were rested, hydrated, and recovered enough to be able to return to continue our tasks. He was always there to place his comforting hand on a shoulder, and even in some cases, to give a hug when the emotions as the scene of a tragedy became too overwhelming. And for the citizens who faced possibly the worst days of their lives when they found out that they would not be able to return to their home because of a fire, or other types of damage, Art's comforting words and hand on their shoulder, plus his knowledge and expertise, would help them through those tragic first moments, by finding them lodging for the next few days and providing them with the necessary personal items to help.
In the dozens of meetings that I attended in county and out of county, you can be sure that Art was there always smiling , and shaking hands just like the politicians, except Art was the "politician" everyone liked and respected.
Though the world won't be the same with Art gone, we can all be assured that if by chance there was a problem in heaven, Art would be at the Lord's side offering his expertise and assistance in any way he possibly could. What we all lost, heaven gained. And I firmly believe that when our time comes, Art will be in the reception line with that smile, his kind comforting words, a firm handshake, and/or the bear hug welcoming us to paradise. Art was an angel on Earth. He will definitely be missed by all whose lives he touch.
Farewell , for now, my friend. We'll meet again on the other side.
To Art's family I want to extend my most sincere condolences, from not only myself, but on behalf of the hundreds of firefighters from the county over the past several years who were touched by Art's service.