Arthur Louis North

Mr. Arthur Louis North, age 95, a longtime resident of Little Falls, passed away peacefully on Monday evening, March 25, 2024 at Alpine Nursing and Rehab, Little Falls.

Arthur North was born December 15, 1928, the only son of John and Loretta North in Queens, NY. Art graduated from his beloved Fordham University. Continuing on with his Jesuits, he earned his Masters’ degree in Journalism. Arthur traveled the world with his parents which enhanced his well-rounded education.

Arthur’s father being a proponent of duty and discipline supported his son in the service of the United States Airforce and was honorably discharged in 1953, with the rank of Second Lieutenant. Arthur’s love of service led him to employment as a congressional attaché’. He was involved in the passage of the first bottle bill in Massachusetts in 1983. Arthur’s journalism prowess was expressed during his years of employment with the NY Times. His tales of life as a newspaper man in NYC were wild as well as captivating. Art was as witty as he was quirky.

His life seemed one of Cinderella in reverse. Retirement appeared to have set Arthur free. Departing from NYC, he ventured by train to Upstate NY where, at that time, cows outnumbered people. He took up residence in a former farm house with and little amenities which he filled with stray dogs and cats. Arthur loved all animals. Leaving fashion, finances, and politics aside, Arthur derived sincere pleasure in his latter years. He was known as the “Cat Man” he would use his last coin to but liver for any stray who approached him. Melon Head, being the favored feline.

Arthur had a special friend Laura Morse who assisted him through the years.  Arthur North, a simple man, leaves behind his three friends Judy Piana, Kathy Fox, and (K-2) Kathy Hudson. Arthur had many friends at the Office for the Aging that will miss his many phone calls to check in during the day. Arthur also wanted to thank Officer Justin Dibble for their friendship. Arthur’s wish to remain in his home surrounded by items he had collected throughout his life. In his final years he enjoyed the simple things, a piece of cheesecake, some vanilla ice cream and a good glass of wine. We would like to thank Kathy Hudson and Becky who provided care in his home. A special thank you to Rick Fox who loved to sit and talk politics and listen to Arthur’s many stories.

Arthur came up with Arthurisms; one being; “This life on earth is the temporary zone” and “I’m not complaining I’m just commenting.” He spent last few months of his “temporary zone.” with his three friends and with his new friends at Alpine Rehab who continued loving Arthur into eternity. A special thanks to his roommate Bill who was always watching over Arthur in his final days.

Arthur passed during the night on March 25, 2024 with his mechanical cat, “the companion of my tranquility, nestled beside him.

His funeral arrangements are under the direction and care of the locally owned and operated Mohawk Valley Funerals and Cremations, 7507 State Route 5, between Little Falls and St. Johnsville, 315-508-5131, Cremation Specialists. Services will be held at the convenience of the family with final burial to take place down state.