[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 32 (Wednesday, February 25, 2015)]
[Senate]
[Page S1116]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        REMEMBERING JAMES KOLLER

 Mr. CASEY. Mr. President, I wish to remember Mr. James Koller, 
a devoted father, husband and Pennsylvania leader. Jim passed away on 
February 3, 2015, after a 6-year battle with ALS.
  Jim's life was defined by his many passions. A successful lawyer and 
businessman, he was also deeply engaged with his community. A graduate 
of Marquette University and the Dickinson School of Law, he practiced 
real estate law in Philadelphia before cofounding Vesterra Corporation, 
a commercial real estate development company through which Jim built 
many strong community relationships. Alongside his professional 
success, Jim maintained an active role in his church and enjoyed an 
active lifestyle.
  Jim's diagnosis with ALS 6 years ago did not slow him down; rather, 
it pushed him to do even more to combat the disease. Along with his 
family and friends, he started Team Koller, a fundraising group that 
participated in local ALS awareness events and raised tens of thousands 
of dollars for research and treatment. Even at the most difficult 
times, Jim stayed focused on solutions, seeking answers and help for 
those afflicted by ALS.
  Although we mourn Jim's passing, his selfless and passionate efforts 
give me hope that we may soon find a cure for this menacing disease. 
May we continue to live and fight as James Koller did, with courage and 
fortitude. My thoughts and prayers are with Jim's wife Marianne, his 
sons, James and Kevin, and the rest of his family in this difficult 
time.

                          ____________________