ALTAMONT — Arthur Frederick Button, owner of Button Electric, contributed to the community as a scoutmaster and volunteer firefighter.

Known to his family and friends as Art, he died on Sunday, April 23, 2023, at the age of 70.

He was born on April 29, 1952, in Rome, New York, the son of Charles and Eleanor Button.

“Art lived a full and meaningful life,” his family wrote in a tribute, “that touched the hearts of those who knew him.

“Professionally, Art was an electrician who owned his own business, Button Electric. He was a well-known figure at the Altamont Fair, where he served as the electrician for many years, always on hand and helping at every event held at the fairgrounds.

“He was also a member of the Altamont Fire Department, which allowed him to continue to serve the community he loved. Art was a dedicated scoutmaster for the local Altamont Boy Scout troop for many years, an accomplishment that he was very proud of.

“Art had a fun and goofy sense of humor, always willing to crack a joke with a twinkle in his eye. He was kind and couldn’t stand people who were intentionally cruel to any living thing.

“He had a great love of nature and camping, and loved to be outdoors. Art's positive spirit and warm personality made him a joy to be around, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

“His passing is a great loss to his family, friends, and community, but his legacy of kindness and service will continue to inspire those who knew him. Rest in peace, Art.”

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Arthur Frederick Button is survived by his sister, Julie Button; by his daughter, Rebecca Burnside; by his stepdaughters, Christine Tice and Catherine Ashworth; and by his grandchildren, Jessica Foster, Leanna Tice, Sage Ashworth, Janet Rogers, and Emilee Burnside as well as his great-grandchild, Owen Foster.

His beloved wife, Peg Button, died before him, as did his parents, Charles and Eleanor Button.

A celebration of his life will be held at the Altamont Veterans of Foreign Wars Post, at 11 Mill St., on Saturday, May 13, from 2 to 4 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to Altamont Boy Scout Troop 264 at Scoutmaster, Troop 264, 1156 Meadowdale Rd., Altamont, NY 12009 or to the Altamont Fire Department, 115 Main St, Altamont, NY 12009.