Earlier this week, Steve Harrington passed away while deer hunting off Royalton Center Road in Gasport.
The news of his passing is saddening. Steve was one of the really good guys. I know that sentiment is thrown around a lot when people pass but it certainly rang true with Steve. His love of life -- and people -- was outstanding and contagious.
I enjoyed his visits to my office a few times a year when he'd be out and about looking for sponsors, and then giving updates to those sponsors, for the Erie Canal Derby. He always brightened up the day with his smile and that hearty laugh of his.
It was that Derby that showed how special Steve was. His goal with the event the past 27 years was to do everything he could to get families outdoors together. Where better than the Erie Canal -- a body of water that was instrumental in our history and one that has an unprecedented amount of accessibility. He saw the value of that public asset in getting kids interested in the outdoors and in spending quality time with their parents, making a lifetime of memories. The Derby has been a success because Steve put his heart into it.
The community has lost a wonderful man.
RIP, Steve.
Here is Steve's obituary:
http://obituaries.lockportjournal.com/obituary/stephen-harrington-1948-2017-1006477951
