[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 51 (Friday, March 22, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E283]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF JOHN DOLDO, JR.

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. ELISE M. STEFANIK

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, March 22, 2024

  Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the life and 
legacy of John Doldo, Jr., a pillar of the Watertown community.
  John was born at the height of the Great Depression to a large, 
first-generation Italian American family. Growing up with six siblings, 
John was instilled with the values of hard work, eventually rising to 
become a football star quarterback for Watertown High School as a proud 
member of the ``Gang of Eight.'' After graduating, John would go on to 
join the United States Army in 1951. For five years, he remained in his 
post until being honorably discharged in 1956. In the interval, John 
met and married the love of his life Patricia on a blind date whom he 
described as ``the most beautiful woman he had ever seen.'' They would 
have celebrated their 70th anniversary this year.
  After leaving the army, John found his calling in real estate--a 
field in which he was immensely talented. Working in this capacity, 
John facilitated numerous land deals and renewal projects in the North 
Country with great skill and dedication leading to a very successful 
career. Outside of work, John was a strong voice in Watertown's 
community. He served on the boards of numerous charitable and cultural 
organizations and was a member and judicial delegate for multiple 
Republican committees. For his firm commitment to those around him, he 
was granted the North Country Citation Award from Saint Lawrence 
University.
  What John was best known for, however, was being a family man. You 
could often find John hosting feasts for his family and singing with 
one of his many grandchildren. John hosted an annual Feast of the Seven 
Fishes which will be fondly remembered by those close to him along with 
his voice leading the children in singing ``Oh Come All Ye Faithful.''
  John Doldo lived a full life that demonstrated his utmost dedication 
to his country, his community, and his family. His hard work allowed 
him to live a life full of charity and joy. On behalf of New York's 
21st Congressional District, I am deeply honored to share my gratitude 
with John's family and reflect on his lifetime of public service as we 
celebrate his life of service.

                          ____________________