In Memoriam--
Lenord: He knew things.
Our community has lost an exceptional man known for his work, his extensive family, his character, his athleticism, his vision, his grit and his gratitude. Lenord Robinson knew so many things. As an excavator with heavy equipment, he’d show up and solve a backyard septic problem. At a Town Meeting when voters lamented why there was a road issue, he’d rise and say why there was that issue and what needed to be done. He knew that the only thing missing from the Mad River Valley was a lake and that all children should have a place to learn and to swim. He knew 75 acres that would be perfect and together with his hands, mind and equipment, in 1984, Blueberry Lake was created.
Lenord knew that family was first. Hearing his nine children and grandchildren and great-grandchildren speak of him, it is clear he knew how to encourage, be present, teach by example and love unequivocally. He knew how to be a devoted husband to his wife Jean through the best and the hardest of times. He knew their love and their parenting was not about material things and acquisition but about the value of time together, listening, caring and showing by example how to live a rich and moral life. Not only good with heavy machines, he knew how to thread a needle and sew. He was unwavering in fair play, integrity, kindness and compassion.
So many stories have been shared of how he helped others in need as he knew it was the right and the only thing to do. Never a person to malign or harbor disappointment, he knew that anger solved nothing and moving forward was the healthiest way to go. Mischief and fun were sprinkled into everything as he knew it helped relationships grow. Never feeling he had to leave the community to enhance his life, locally he constantly grew in the things he did athletically and the things he did for his community.
Well into his years he learned to play tennis, to build his own court, often visited by his cows and later to play golf which he lovingly did until two days before he passed away at 92. He knew how to laugh and how to have fun. Legendary for his competitiveness, even as a tri-athlete, he knew it was the greatest, in spirited rivalry, to beat the younger guys. The cross-country trail he designed, created and maintained even this last winter, all reflected what he knew -- a challenge is good for the character; beauty and nature are good for the soul.
Often, he shared with his family and friends and anyone who asked of him how very grateful he was for the life he had. He knew that gratitude is a gift that keeps on giving and by sharing it, happiness and contentment resound. His remarkable legacy gives us all reason to know things and to remember Lenord.
