[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 177 (Thursday, November 20, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2302]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO THOMAS WOLFF

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JOE COURTNEY

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 19, 2008

  Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, for nearly 6 decades Thomas Wolff built 
a legacy in Connecticut that included a prolific business career, 
leadership in academic and political communities, authorship of 
countless books and articles, and extensive philanthropic endeavors. 
His legacy has touched countless lives and will continue to inspire 
generations to come. While his passing brings great sadness to our 
community, reflecting on the memories of this extraordinary man brings 
solace to those in mourning.
  Thomas was born in New York City in 1928. In 1949. he moved to 
Vernon, Connecticut, and married his high school sweetheart, Bette. 
Following service in the Korean war, Thomas attended the University of 
Connecticut and graduated cum laude with a degree in economics. Shortly 
after, he would translate these studies and an uncanny business sense 
into a lifelong, successful business career.
  In the late 1950s, he launched Wolf-Zachin and Associates, a 
successful insurance firm that has remained a fixture in Connecticut's 
business community. The firm, now called the Wolff Group, is currently 
headed by his three children, Gary and Greg Wolff and Debi Davis, as 
well as his grandson, Keith Wolff. In 1969, Thomas launched Vernon 
Publishing Services, Inc., a publishing company that created training 
manuals and presentation binders for professionals in the insurance 
industry.
  His work in the insurance industry would define him as one of the 
most respected and knowledgeable leaders in the field. Highlights of 
his career include president of the Connecticut Association of 
Insurance and Financial Advisors, president of the National Association 
of Insurance and Financial Advsors, chairman of the board of Life 
Insurance Underwriters Training Council, and recipient of the 
International Insurance Society Gold Medal for Excellence.
  Additionally, Thomas served on the Vernon Board of Education, UConn's 
University Foundation Board, and was a member of Vernon's Town Council. 
He also brought the Big Brothers and the YMCA to Vernon, was the 
president of the Rockville Rotary Club, and endowed countless UConn 
programs and campus amenities.
  Beyond these numerous accolades, contributions, and achievements, 
Thomas was a devoted family man and friend to many in our community. 
His wife, Bette, whom he married in 1949, was his closest confidant for 
nearly 6 decades. The outpouring of love and support from his wife, 
children, grandchildren, and extended family reflects the strong bond 
that they shared.
  Thomas lived an extraordinary life, filled with personal and 
professional vigor and he will be greatly missed. I ask my colleagues 
to join with me and my constituents in honoring his life and offering 
condolences to his family.




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