Monongahela pays tribute to beloved firefighter and ‘Santa’ Les Pemberton

By Michael Richter
mrichter@yourmvi.com
Before his death, Les Pemberton said he wanted to be remembered as a firefighter and Santa Claus. City council guaranteed Wednesday night his legacy will not be forgotten.
Monongahela council awarded a proclamation to the late Les “Hooty” Pemberton, known for playing the role of Santa Claus in the city and for his dedication to his community during Wednesday’s tear-filled meeting.
Mayor Greg Garry read the proclamation to an audience of about 20 people.
Pemberton, who passed away Feb. 24, was an employee of the city for 35 years. He started as a police dispatcher, then he spent time in the street department and was a code enforcement officer.
“He has dedicated many hours, day and night, often unseen and unnoticed, to administer the duties of his position, and often gave his personal time and service above and beyond the ordinary to serve the City of Monongahela,” Garry said. “Hooty has enhanced and improved the City of Monongahela during his tenure as an employee, a firefighter Lion’s Club member and a board member of the municipal authority.”

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