[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 163 (Saturday, December 17, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2559]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING MR. MARVIN CHASE

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. ROB SIMMONS

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, December 15, 2005

  Mr. SIMMONS. Mr. Speaker, on December 12 a good man, a fine public 
servant and a good friend of mine died at the age of 65. Marvin Chase 
lived in North Stonington and during his lifetime he was truly a 
citizen in action. For those of us who knew him, his name is synonymous 
with public service, a love of his community and a deep love for his 
family and friends.
  Marvin was involved with his community. He was a Republican but he 
was from the school of thought that said, ``I don't care what your 
political affiliation is, I care about you and I care about your 
ideas.'' Consequently, he was able to work with individuals from across 
the political spectrum. He liked and respected people; and he was liked 
and respected in return.
  A 6-year member of the North Stonington Economic Development 
Commission, which he chaired, Marvin won another 5-year term in 
November. First Selectman Nicholas H. Mullane II, said Marvin was 
``probably the best chairman I've ever seen on the EDC.''
  Marvin did more than keep the seat warm. In 2003 he led the 
commission as it studied the best way to bring business to town. He 
also led the commission's two-year effort to create a low-impact 
commercial development zone near Interstate 95 exit 92, which the 
Planning and Zoning Commission approved in February. And that zone 
change drew immediate interest from businesses.
  Marvin was always sensitive of the need to balance business with the 
rural nature of our community and our region in southeastern 
Connecticut. He wanted to attract businesses so that taxes could be 
kept under control and so that there would be jobs; but he knew how 
important it was to ensure that North Stonington kept the quiet 
characteristics that make it such a wonderful place to live and raise a 
family.
  Marvin belonged to the North Stonington Grange, served on the North 
Stonington Fair Committee and for more than 30 years he was a member of 
what is now the Masonic United Coastal Lodge 57. A former deacon of 
United Church in Stonington, Marvin served until a few years ago as 
moderator of the First Baptist Church in North Stonington. He was 
chairman of the North Stonington Republican Town Committee and a 
lifetime member of the North Stonington Fire Company.
  Marvin worked for the State of Connecticut Motor Vehicle Department 
as an inspector for the Dealers and Repairers Division and he owned and 
operated a Shell Service Station in Preston for many years.
  There was also a racy side to Marvin--he drove race cars at the 
Thompson Motor Speedway, Norwood Arena, Waterford Speedbowl and 
Stafford Speedway from 1960 to 2001. And he was vice president of the 
New England Antique Racer's Association.
  Finally, Marvin played a significant role in all of my political 
campaigns, offering me his sage advice and insights to a variety of 
issues. His was always a voice of reason and sound judgment. He was a 
friend--and a friend can tell you things you do not want to tell 
yourself. But those are often things you most need to hear. I will miss 
him greatly.

                          ____________________