[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 175 (Tuesday, October 24, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1006]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 RECOGNIZING THE LIFE OF ROBERT H. LIPP

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. BRIAN HIGGINS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 24, 2023

  Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, today I am honored 
to recognize the life of a quintessential West Side of Buffalo 
resident, Robert Lipp. Often referred to as ``The Mayor of Fifteenth 
Street,'' Robert left an indelible mark on a community that will be 
mourning his loss for a long time to come.
  Born in 1965, Robert graduated from Maryvale High School in 
Cheektowaga, and Bryant & Stratton College in Buffalo, where he 
obtained a degree in Electronic Technology. A longtime employee with 
the New York State Thruway Authority, an on-the-job accident meant that 
Robert entered retirement earlier than he had planned. Instead of 
approaching this situation with negativity, Robert began to dive into 
some of his passions. As a man that understood the value of community 
and neighborhoods, he would plant flowers each year for Buffalo's 
annual Garden Walk. Robert did not simply hope that someone would take 
steps to beautify the West Side of Buffalo; he did it. Whether it 
result from confrontation of absentee landlords or fixing the 
electrical issues of his neighbors, there was no limit to the level of 
love that Robert displayed for the City of Buffalo.
  Of course, Robert enjoyed many other activities, as well. He loved to 
camp, go to concerts and weddings, and (in typical Buffalo fashion) 
watch his beloved Bills and Sabres. He spent time with his many dogs, 
sought to make each year's Garden Walk better than the last, and served 
as a dedicated member of the Democratic Committee.
  Survived by his husband, Bobby Graber, and countless loving family 
members, Robert's sudden passing will undoubtedly be difficult to 
endure. Nevertheless, to all of those who knew and loved Robert, his 
legacy will remain. Robert served as a model citizen in so many ways, 
and our community will forever be a better place because of him.

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