[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 123 (Friday, August 1, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1321]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF MAYOR GEORGE VUKOVICH

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. TIM RYAN

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, August 1, 2014

  Mr. RYAN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember and honor the 
life of former Mayor George Vukovich of Youngstown, Ohio who passed 
away on Monday, July 28, 2014 at the tender age of 87 with his wife of 
64 years, Helen, by his side. He was a dedicated and compassionate 
public servant, serving for over 20 years as the Seventh Ward 
Councilman, Clerk of Youngstown Municipal Court, and Mayor of 
Youngstown.
   When I first started my political career I was lucky enough to have 
spent time with George. He always had great stories to tell of the good 
old days. But more importantly he always gave good advice and counsel. 
I will always remember how much he talked about and treasured his 
family, especially his grandkids. I really enjoyed our time together.
   Mayor Vukovich served as mayor from 1979-1983 and oversaw the city 
during one of its darkest hours. Although Youngstown was suffering from 
massive job loss due to the decline of the steel industry, Mayor 
Vukovich was able to hold the city together during one of its most 
trying seasons. He was a proud veteran of the United States Army who 
loved his community. Mayor Vukovich was also active in the Youngstown 
Democratic Party, a member of the Catholic War Veterans, the Croation 
Fraternal Union (Lodge 185, Campbell), and St. Angela Merici Parish 
(Sacred Heart of Jesus). He treasured spending time with his family, as 
well as hosting visits from loved ones, especially his grandchildren 
who were his greatest joy. He and his wife spent many winters in 
Florida during retirement where they enjoyed boating and long walks on 
the beach.
   Mayor Vukovich is survived by his beloved wife Helen; his daughters, 
Carol and Sonia; grandchildren, Carrie, Michael, Carly, and Katie; 
brothers Peter and Henry, an abundance of loved ones and friends. 
George has been preceded in death by his loving parents, sisters Ann 
and Helen, as well as his brothers Jack, John, and Thomas. I am proud 
to honor the life of Mayor George Vukovich. The city of Youngstown is 
forever indebted to honorable years of his service. Youngstown is a 
much better place to call home because of his valiant work. My deepest 
condolences go out to his family and close friends. George will be 
deeply missed but his courageous spirit will forever live on through 
the hearts and lives he has touched.

                          ____________________