The city of South Portland has renamed its municipal services facility after resident and city employee Russell K. Lunt.

Lunt passed away in June due to what his longtime partner Sherre Maynard said was a recent illness.

Lunt worked for the South Portland Public Works department for 34 years.

After retiring in 2009, Lunt became even more involved within the South Portland community, said Maynard. She says he started to attend all the City Council meetings, becoming known as the “eighth councilor” for how he positively talked about all the public works department at the meetings.

He was also one of the main advocates in pushing the city to build a new public works department building.

“This will have a lasting impact,” said South Portland City Manager Scott Morelli during Thursday’s dedication ceremony. “His name will be associated and remembered for decades to come.”

South Portland officials spoke about how Lunt was able to see the best in every situation, no matter how difficult it was.

“His smile and jovial demeanor were contagious, spreading warmth throughout our community. He was the city’s heart and soul,” said South Portland Mayor Misha Pride.

There were also stories from employees of the South Portland Public Works department. Jeff Ross shared his first day on the job, explaining that he needed a friend to show him how to run daily operations for the department.

He said Lunt was there for him the first day, and even helped him get his plowing license. The dedication he had not only to his job but to his colleagues is what made him likeable within the department, and Ross’ best friend for more than three decades.

“People ask to say who is Russ Lunt, I say just remember him as a well-bodied worker for the city of South Portland Public Works and a guy that would always help you,” said Ross, holding back tears.

Russell Lunt, Jr. spoke of his father’s work ethic.

“My father worked hard for 34 years and worked hard every single day, and I know he would be proud of this,” he said.

“He loved the city, he loved public works, and he always wanted to make this city better,” said Maynard. “His purpose was with this department, and you could tell everyone knew that. I’m so thrilled that he got this honor.”