KENMORE — A few weeks ago, one of the transformers at the Kenmore Village Apartments blew out, leaving some residents in the dark. Flashlight in hand, John Tripoli knocked on the door of each homebound tenant and asked if they were OK or needed anything.

That’s just one of countless examples of the acts of kindness Tripoli, 85, has exhibited in his 16 years as a resident there, and it’s why the Kenmore Village Improvement Society on Wednesday named him the recipient of its “Good Neighbor of the Year” award.

Showing just how much they appreciate his good deeds, more than 100 residents from the two Kenmore Village Apartments attended the award ceremony, along with Tripoli’s children and grandchildren.

“I consider him to be the Eighth Wonder of the World,” said a beaming Elaine Samson. “He uplifts everybody’s morale. When he’s around, the day is lighter and brighter for people. He radiates love, caring and sharing,” she said.

Kenmore Village Improvement Society founder Melissa Foster called Tripoli “one of Kenmore’s finest citizens,” and Mayor Patrick Mang said, “Thank God we have people like John. He is truly an example of what Kenmore’s all about — a community of neighbors looking out for one another.”

Tripoli received 18 nominations for the award from apartment residents, Foster said. Since moving into the Kenmore Village Apartments in 1994, Tripoli has offered a helping hand, regardless of the weather. “Last year during a blizzard, he actually went out six different times for people who needed bread and milk but couldn’t get out,” said Bette Culp, who frequently plays cards with Tripoli. “He just looks out for everybody, he’s great,” she said.

What started out as getting milk for a couple he knew there blossomed into many different store runs each week, with residents telling him what they need by calling him or slipping a note under the door, Tripoli said. “All I have to remember is, do they want 1 percent or 2 percent milk?” he said with a laugh. Tripoli also will pick up prescriptions for residents. “They all know me at Rite-Aid,” he said.

But Tripoli’s helpfulness isn’t limited to milk runs. He even escorts some of the residents between the two apartment complexes at night, making sure they get into the building safely. Tripoli also volunteers every Sunday at Millard Fillmore Hospital.

“I almost wish I got him a pair of running shoes, because we see him go back and forth so often,” said Kenmore Village Apartments Executive Director Stephen Stone.

Asked why he does it all, Tripoli said, “Just something to keep busy, and they need it. We’ve got so many beautiful people here.”

A native of Buffalo’s West Side, Tripoli graduated from Hutch-Tech, then went on to serve in the U.S. Navy during World War II along with his three brothers. He then joined the Navy Hospital Corps and was attached to a Marines unit that fought under Gen. Douglas MacArthur in the critical New Guinea campaign.

Although he lived in Buffalo for 35 years, Tripoli said he always had an affinity for Kenmore and was happy to move to the village.

Tripoli didn’t give an acceptance speech after receiving his award from KVIS member and Kenmore Senior Housing Commissioner Patricia Christian, but he did blow a few kisses of thanks to the crowd, which gave him a standing ovation.

“You can’t help but be inspired today,” said village Trustee Paul Catalano.