In Recognition of Robert O'Toole

IN RECOGNITION OF ROBERT O'TOOLE -- (Extensions of Remarks - April 26, 2004)

SPEECH OF
HON. STEPHEN F. LYNCH
OF MASSACHUSETTS
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
MONDAY, APRIL 26, 2004

Mr. LYNCH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of a man whose professional life has been dedicated to improving the lives of working men and women in Massachusetts and across our nation.

Mr. Speaker, it is my duty to inform the Membership of the house that my dear friend, Bob O'Toole is retiring from the post of Business Manager-Financial Secretary Treasurer of the Pipefitter's Local Union 537 in Boston, Massachusetts.

Mr. Speaker, Bob O'Toole is a remarkable leader with a long and illustrious career in the American Labor Movement. Bob started his career as a pipefitter over 37 years ago and his shining example of dedicated service to his union, his community and his family is worthy of Congressional recognition and deserving of the appreciation of his nation. He will he sorely missed by his union membership and their families who have benefited from Bob's ability to lead by example and quiet dignity. Bob's personal integrity, hard work and determination illustrate the best characteristics of those who serve the working men and women of this country.

As a member of the Massachusetts State Legislature and Chair of its Commerce and Labor Committee, I witnessed Bob's tireless advocacy on behalf of working families. From securing benefits for workers who had lost their jobs, to training the next generation of America's workers, Bob has worked to ensure that the views and interests of working people are at the forefront of our state and national policy.

Mr. Speaker, Bob O'Toole has also been a man committed to his community and has dedicated many hours and much energy to various charities including Julie's Place, the Muscular Dystrophy Association, the Family Inn, the St. Francis House for the Homeless, the Special Olympics and the American Red Cross.

And most importantly, Bob has had the enormous pleasure and tremendous good fortune to be married to his wife Marie for over 40 years. Additionally, Bob has been blessed with three children, Terri, Bobby and Kathy, and is the proud and from what I hear doting grandfather to Timothy, Holly, Michael and Kyle.

Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct honor to take the floor of the House today to join with Bob's family, friends, and brothers and sisters in the Labor Movement to thank him for his service and congratulate him on his much-deserved retirement. I hope my colleagues will join me in celebrating Bob O'Toole's distinguished career and all his future endeavors.

END