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Ken' s contributions to the city of Cohoes were life-long. In his 30 years of employment in the Cohoes Post Office he would often act as a "welcome wagon" of sorts, giving people an introduction to the city, recounting to them much of the history of the city, and making lasting friendships in the process. He took a special interest in people, as well as the extra effort to accommodate their needs. For example, one woman said, "If it weren't for Ken Green, I would not have made Cohoes my home." He helped her familiarize herself with the city, making her feel comfortable and at home. She was one of many whose lives Ken touched during his Post Office career. He continued this kind of contribution during his ten-year employment as Director of the Cohoes Tool Library. In this role he willingly shared his knowledge of tools and home repair and maintenance. | ||
| One of his most memorable contributions was his portrayal of Santa Claus for several years for the city of Cohoes, as well as area nursery schools. In addition to his official duties, Ken, of his own accord, volunteered to bring Santa Claus into the homes of many of Cohoes ' children. He was more than happy to accommodate the many requests for Santa ' s Christmas Eve visit, for it gave him as much joy as he brought to others. He would often say that his fondest memory was one Christmas Eve when a small child wrapped his arms around Santa ' s large belly, looked up into his eyes and said, "Santa, I love you. " |
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I
Love Cohoes |
Another one of Ken’s great passions was the Cohoes Music Hall, where he donned many caps...from bartender, to elevator operator, to stage performer. Of special note was his debut performance singing Cohoes' anthem, "I Love Cohoes," on stage at the Cohoes Music Hall. He continued to sing this song at many official city functions, which brought him the nickname, "Mr. Cohoes." Ken never missed an opportunity to share his culinary flair volunteering to cook and serve at countless spaghetti dinners, barbecues, and clambakes at local churches, the Senior Citizens' Center, Cohoes Community Center, Cohoes Music Hall, and many other functions. |
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In later years, Ken, along with his cronies in the Silver Tops, touched the hearts of many at nursing homes, hospitals, nursery schools, and community festivals...anywhere where he could bring laughter and smiles. |
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An indication of the impact
Ken had on the lives of the people of Cohoes was certainly obvious at
the time of his death. Many of his old colleagues, friends and family
paid tribute to him that day. The lengthy procession of people at the
funeral parlor waiting to pay their last respects. One gentleman said,
with tears in his eyes, "I am really going to miss Kenny. I have
known him since kindergarten at Saint Marie's School and have never met
someone so giving and kind. He was a gentleman and a friend. " |
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Ken's
kindness and sense of humor will forever leave "a pair of shoes
never to be filled." He had a genuine pride and love for
"his" city and its people. They were his "extended"
family. Ken Green truly lived the words, "I love my hometown...I
love Cohoes." |
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Other Ken Green Information |
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