[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 74 (Monday, May 1, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E578]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                 IN HONOR OF ERNEST ``ERNIE'' DiPIETRO

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. ELIZABETH H. ESTY

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, May 1, 2017

  Ms. ESTY of Connecticut. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I 
rise today to honor a dear friend, Ernest ``Ernie'' DiPietro. Ernie 
passed away on April 24th at the age of 73. Ernie dedicated his life to 
public service, leaving behind a legacy in Cheshire, Connecticut that 
will never be forgotten.
  Ernie was born in Chicago, Illinois on February 27, 1944. He 
graduated from Croft High School in Waterbury, before going on to earn 
his Bachelor's Degree at the University of New England, and his 
Master's Degree at the University of Hartford. Ernie proudly served our 
country in the U.S. Army Reserves during the Vietnam War. Reflecting 
his commitment to all who have served in the Armed Forces, Ernie served 
as American Legion Commander for Storrs Post 92 of Cheshire, enhancing 
the lives of our veterans, military, and their families, both at home 
and abroad.
  A committed educator, Ernie taught for the Wolcott Public School 
System and was a member of the Mattatuck Community College faculty. 
Ernie will always be remembered by friends and family for his great 
passion for politics and the nearly three decades that he led the 
Cheshire Democratic Party. I am grateful for his many years of 
friendship and his guidance to me and so many others who have served 
our beloved town.
  Ernie's involvement and leadership in numerous social organizations 
has made an immeasurable impact on the Cheshire community. Ernie was a 
co-marshal for Cheshire's Memorial Day parade, as well as an integral 
member of the Cheshire Veterans Council. Fellow member of the Cheshire 
Veterans Council, Leslie Marinaro, remembers Ernie's years of 
dedication fondly, stating, ``Ernie's footprint will remain forever in 
Cheshire and among our veterans.'' In addition, Ernie was active in 
many other organizations, including the Cheshire Kiwanis Club, Cheshire 
Land Trust, Cheshire Historical Society, and the Friends of Cheshire 
Library.
  Ernie was also a devoted family man. He loved his wonderful wife of 
46 years, Carol, who shared his passion for politics and public 
service. Ernie will also be missed by his brother-in-law, cousins, 
nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, and his many friends.
  I had the great fortune to know Ernie DiPietro and call him my 
friend. His warm heart, sense of humor, infectious smile, and love of 
life touched all who knew him. He truly left the world a better place.
  Ernie's life embodied the spirit of civic engagement that strengthens 
our communities, and makes our country a better place. His 
contributions to the Town of Cheshire, the State of Connecticut, and to 
the United States of America will not be forgotten. Ernie, we love you 
and miss you.

                          ____________________