[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 22 (Monday, February 3, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E119]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





     IN RECOGNITION OF THE PASSING OF THE HONORABLE CONRAD BLETZER

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                        HON. WILLIAM R. KEATING

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, February 3, 2020

  Mr. KEATING. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the life 
of Conrad ``Connie'' Bletzer, who served as the Chief Justice of the 
Newton District Court in Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
  Born and raised in Brighton, Mr. Bletzer attended Saint Columbkille's 
high school and later enrolled at Boston College. During the outbreak 
of the Korean War, he left his studies to serve his country and 
enlisted in the United States Army. Upon returning, Connie utilized the 
GI Bill to continue his studies at Boston College Law School. 
Graduating at the top of his class, he went on to establish his own law 
firm, Bletzer & Bletzer, in 1959. In the 1980's two of his sons joined 
his law firm and it was there that he would develop a reputation for 
being a hardworking, fair, and honorable man. In 1990, he moved out of 
his private practice, and was appointed by then Governor Michael S. 
Dukakis, to serve as the Presiding Justice of the Newton District 
Court.
  While becoming an extremely successful lawyer, Mr. Bletzer not only 
excelled in his work but also in his personal relationships with family 
and friends. A true family man, he was constantly playing hockey or 
baseball with his children and later his grandchildren. He greatly 
believed in the positive impact of competitive sports in his community, 
and served as president of the Brighton Central Little League and even 
founded the Brighton youth hockey association.
  Those who knew Connie knew him as a good man, full of kindness and 
the desire to help others through the legal system. Mr. Bletzer passed 
away on the 29th of December, in the comfort of his family and friends, 
yet his legacy in the Newton community lives on. He is survived by his 
loving wife, Paula, six children, fifteen grandchildren, and five 
great-grandchildren.
  I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing his commitment to his 
local community and the people of Massachusetts.

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