First Selectman’s Newsletter: An Appreciation of Frank Kemp for His Spirit and Many Volunteer Contributions to the Community

First Selectman Jon Zagrodzky devoted Saturday’s entire town government newsletter to discussing the late Frank Kemp, a town official and active member of the community who passed away on Aug. 30 at the age of 81.

Here’s the full text:

Be like Frank.

You may have heard that RTM member Frank Kemp passed away on August 30. He had not been well recently, even announcing earlier in the month that he’d be stepping down from the RTM in November due to heart trouble. But the announcement still came as a shock. Like many others, I am still processing the awful news.

Those of us in Town government will remember Frank as man of principle, a steady and calming presence, a careful and thoughtful man, a contributor. When he spoke, it wasn’t just what he said, but how he said it. With the possible exception of the redoubtable Jim Cameron, few could match his stentorian, “live from the White House” reporter’s voice that inspired such confidence. I had a chance to collaborate with Frank several times, most recently on the revised Harbor Ordinances. His input made the changes, and the process to develop them, better.

Frank’s passion for Darien didn’t stop at Town Hall. He was an avid member of the Darien Sail & Power Squadron, where each July he would lend his boat to the flotilla providing a water experience for Stamford and Norwalk kids.

How about these photos from the event this summer and last summer? Everyone had a great time, thanks in no small part to Frank’s enthusiasm.

But my favorite time with Frank was when he and I starred in the Heritage Day play during the celebration of Darien’s Bicentennial in October 2021. I’ll never forget straight-as-an-arrow Frank getting arrested in front of the Congregational Church. A classic!

It’s worth noting that Frank was a man of resilience. He maintained his optimism, passion, and generosity despite losing Judy, his wife of 44 years, in 2013, when he could easily have retreated into quiet seclusion. I am grateful for this.

“If your heart is broken, make art with the pieces.” -Shane Koyczan

While I am sad about Frank’s passing, I am hopeful that his memory will set an example for many years to come. Ask yourself – how can I bounce back from whatever troubles I have faced? What more can I do to contribute? How can I help someone else? How can I inspire others? What can I do to be a source of fun and joy?

In other words, be like Frank!

* * *

I look forward to joining the celebration of Frank’s life, which will be held at his beloved St. Luke’s Parish on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. Hope to see you there.

As he would close his emails, “best to you all.” JZ