Kermit Arnold Prince, 78, of West Portsmouth, concluded a wonderful journey through life on Sunday January 31, 2010, when he died at Hill View Retirement Center, surrounded by family. He was born August 28, 1931 in Portsmouth to the late Burrell and Margaret Simon Prince.
Kermit chose the scenic route through life. He often was described as a dreamer and a free spirit, but here is how his grandchildren described him: "Grandpa is a very kind person who acts very friendly to everyone he meets. He is very agreeable and patient. Most people would like my grandpa and consider him an all-around nice guy." Kermit was easy-going, and a favorite expression was "whatever floats your boat".
Kermit was very generous with his time, and with the little money he had. He strived to teach his children and grandchildren the principles of Matthew 25: 31-40.
A 1950 graduate of Washington High School, Kermit served his country in the U.S. Navy, and spoke fondly of his time aboard the aircraft carrier U.S.S. Randolph. He explored a number of careers, but was a sign painter for most of his career, including for some time at Goodyear Atomic Plant.
Kermit loved sports, especially tennis, which he played actively with his family, and tennis allowed him to meet many new friends around Portsmouth in his later years.
Preceded in death by his wife, Wanda Jane Hazelbaker Prince, Kermit is survived by his brother Bob Prince (Eleanor), and by four adult daughters, Cindy Morrow (Larry), Linda Lelek (Ken), Connie Powell (Rick), Beth Rogers (Gary), and one adult son, Mark Prince (Jeanie). He has twelve grandchildren, Eric Morrow (Johanna), Sara Monroe (Adam), Jason Powell (Kelleigh), Wesley Powell, Matthew and Nathan Lelek, Aaron and Nicole Prince; Rachel, Caleb, Josh, and Noah Rogers. Just as Kermit's life was drawing to a close, his first great-grandchild came into the world, Madilyn Grace Monroe. Kermit's in-law children were very special to him, and he commented often of the wise choices his children had made in selecting spouses.
Kermit was open-minded, and he loved debating and conversation. He participated actively in Toastmasters for years. He valued education, encouraged it in his children, and largely self-educated himself.
Funeral services will be 11:00 AM Wednesday February 3, 2010 at the Roger W. Davis Funeral Home in West Portsmouth with Pastor Pete Shaffer officiating. Military rites provided by James Dickey Post 23 American Legion. Friends may call at he funeral home form 6 to 8:00 PM on Tuesday and 1 hour prior to the service on Wednesday. In lieu of flowers, Kerm's family encourages friends to contribute to the Hill View Retirement Center's new worship center, at Hill View Retirement Center, 1610 28th Street, Portsmouth, Ohio 45662. Condolences may be sent to www.rogerwdavisfuneralhome.com