[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 23 (Tuesday, February 9, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E144]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            HONORING MR. JOSEPH FAZIO ON HIS 100TH BIRTHDAY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. LEE M. ZELDIN

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 9, 2016

  Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay a special tribute to the 
incredible life of Mr. Joseph Fazio.
  Born in 1916 in the Bronx, Joseph was the oldest son of 5 children. 
Tragically, when Joseph was in high school his father passed away, 
forcing him to quit school so that he could provide for his family. 
After receiving a small loan from a friend, Joseph bought his own truck 
and subsequently started a trucking business. He worked tirelessly for 
his customers to ensure they received the best possible service year 
after year. Joseph's altruism is only one of the many qualities that 
make him such a wonderful and caring person.
  Joseph retired at the age of 65 so that he could truly appreciate the 
community of Mastic Beach full-time; however, you would not know that 
by the way he has maintained such an active role in the town's affairs. 
To name a few of his many contributions to Mastic Beach: Joseph has 
built floats for the Mastic Beach Parade; built benches for the docks; 
volunteered for the Annual Seafood Festival; was the former Director of 
the Mastic Beach Property Owners Association; and enjoys playing the 
piano for other seniors. When he's not busy helping his fellow 
community members, he takes great pleasure in gardening, planting 
hundreds of tomato plants and many varieties of vegetables. He is known 
as the Beloved Farmer of Mastic Beach, as he generously shared the 
treasures of his garden with friends throughout the Tri-Hamlet 
Community. Joe is also a long standing member of St. Jude Catholic 
Church and Knights of Columbus.
  Joseph will be turning 100 years old on March 27, 2016. Joseph, and 
his lovely wife Ann, are the proud parents of 2 children, 5 
grandchildren, and 8 great grandchildren. Good food, good family, good 
friends and a strong belief in God have kept him going to 100. I am 
blessed to serve and represent such an incredible human being like 
Joseph Fazio in the First Congressional District of New York, and proud 
to express my gratitude for all he does for his community; as well as 
wish him a very happy 100th birthday.

                          ____________________