Chris Lemone, a valued member of the Staples community and the Human Services Department’s student outreach counselor for 17 years, passed away on Sunday, Oct. 18 of an alleged heart attack, according to Dan Woog’s blog, 06880. He was 49 years old.

“He was a great guy,” assistant principal Patrick Micinilio said. “[He had a] great sense of humor, and was very supportive of the initiatives we took on here at the high school.”

Lemone was perhaps best known for his work with the Teen Awareness Group (TAG), which recently put together a safe driving assembly and is involved in the annual Grim Reaper Day.

Jackson Daignault ’18, a member of TAG, said Lemone was always making people smile.

“He truly was one of the best overall people I’ve ever known.” Daignault said. “I loved him to death, and it sucks to see him go.”

Avery Marks ’17 a current member of TAG echoed this sentiment, calling Lemone a “hero” to the Staples community.

Many members of TAG formed personal relationships with Lemone during their four years at Staples.

“He was basically just a grown up friend” Jack Greenwald ’14, a former member of TAG, said. “Staples won’t be the same without him.”

The exact date of Lemone’s funeral is yet to be released, although any students who need support during this difficult time are encouraged to go to guidance.

“Chris always approached even the most negative of situations in the most positive way.” Kendall Rochlin ’15 said. “He would want everyone to do the same in this terrible situation.”