[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 36 (Wednesday, February 28, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E187]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF MARK SMAIL

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. GUY RESCHENTHALER

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 28, 2024

  Mr. RESCHENTHALER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate the life and 
legacy of Mark Smail, who sadly passed away at the age of 62 on 
February 17, 2024.
  A graduate of Hempfield Area High School and the University of 
Pittsburgh-Johnstown, Mark joined the family business at Smail Auto 
Group and spent the next 40 years establishing the company as an 
institutional pillar of the Westmoreland County business community. 
Mark replaced his father as General Manager in 2018 and became the 
third generation of the Smail family to lead the business.
  Mark distinguished himself through his leadership, business acumen, 
and dedication to the community. The Westmoreland County Chamber of 
Commerce named Smail Auto Group the 2021 Business of the Year, largely 
due to the company's ability to keep all 500 employees on staff during 
the COVID-19 pandemic. Mark's continuous participation in industry and 
community associations also earned widespread praise. In recognition of 
his commitment to civic engagement, the Pennsylvania Automotive 
Association awarded Mark the 2021 Bud Smail Political Advocacy Award. 
The award pays homage to Mark's late father, who inspired him to work 
hard and give back to his community.
  Mark shared his father's determination to give back to the community 
and strived to make southwestern Pennsylvania a better place to live. 
As a philanthropist, Mark raised millions of dollars for local 
nonprofits. He contributed to and volunteered with many organizations, 
including the Pittsburgh Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases, the 
Magee-Women's Research Institute and Foundation, the Troops First 
Foundation, the Westmoreland Cultural Trust, and the Westmoreland Food 
Bank.
  As a devoted husband and father, Mark cherished his friends and 
family. Mark will be remembered by his wife of 35 years, Kelly, and 
their children, Taylor and Marcus. His memory will undoubtedly serve as 
an example of love, devotion to one's family, and selfless service.
  Mr. Speaker, Mark Smail dedicated his life to the people of 
Westmoreland County and southwestern Pennsylvania. His legacy is the 
epitome of a life well-lived. On behalf of the people of Pennsylvania's 
14th Congressional District, I wish his family healing during this 
difficult time.

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