[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 28 (Monday, February 28, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E323]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      TRIBUTE TO MARY ANN SUDOVAR

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BILL PASCRELL, JR.

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, February 28, 2011

  Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention an 
outstanding individual and a source of inspiration to many, Mrs. Mary 
Anne Sudovar, who celebrated her 100th birthday on September 18, 2010.
  Born in Shelton, CT, in 1910 as Mary Anne Sullivan, she is the oldest 
of nine children. As a result of her father's job as a construction 
foreman in the 1920's, Mary's family was forced to relocate frequently. 
Consequently, they lived in Massachusetts, North and South Carolina, 
Virginia, and New Jersey in addition to Connecticut.
  Mary's propensity to travel extended outside the United States as 
well. During her lifetime she has visited France, Egypt, Israel, Rome, 
and Scotland.
  In 1938, Mary was wed to Stephen Sudovar (d. 1998) of Garfield, NJ. 
Shortly afterwards, the couple moved to Wayne, NJ, where they began to 
build a life together. Mary and Steve had four children: Marianne, 
Kathleen, Stephen, and Barbara. Mary has 16 grandchildren and is 
fortunate enough to also enjoy 16 great-grandchildren with one more on 
the way.
  Mary recalls some of her fondest memories over the past century: 
walking around Packanack Lake, dancing the Polka with her husband, 
Steve, storytelling, and relaxing on cool summer evenings.
  Today, Mary continues to be the life of the party and constantly has 
visitors. She serves as a source of inspiration to her soon-to-be 37 
person family with her beautiful smile, encouraging words, and upbeat 
attitude. When asked about the secrets to a long and healthy life, Mary 
quickly declared, ``Hard work and always managing to smile-- regardless 
of the situation.''
  The job of a United States Congressman involves much that is 
rewarding, yet nothing compares to recognizing outstanding members of 
the community like Anne Mary Sudovar.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join our colleagues, Mary's family and 
friends, the residents of Wayne, NJ, and me in congratulating Mary on 
her 100th birthday.

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