[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 38 (Wednesday, February 26, 2025)]
[House]
[Pages H841-H842]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF SAMUEL LEON RADFORD, JR.

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from New 
York (Mr. Kennedy) for 5 minutes.
  Mr. KENNEDY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life 
and legacy of Samuel Leon Radford, Jr., whose contributions to our 
community will be felt for generations to come.
  Born in Niagara Falls, New York, and raised in Buffalo, New York, 
Samuel dedicated his life to service, faith, and family. He attended 
Bennett High School before continuing his education at the University 
of Buffalo where he learned a strong sense of discipline and a love of 
knowledge.
  Throughout his successful career at General Motors American Axle and 
Manufacturing facility in Buffalo, he took pride in a job well done. Of 
course, his guiding light was his family, his faith, and his community. 
He was baptized at Linwood Church of Christ.
  Samuel was a man who led by example. He was steadfast in his values, 
generous in spirit, and had a heart filled with humility and kindness.
  On February 16, 2025, Samuel passed away peacefully, leaving behind a 
legacy of resilience, faith, and love.
  A devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Samuel's 
greatest legacy is the love he poured into his family, including his 
wife, Lorraine Davis Radford; his five children, Samuel L. Radford III; 
Desiree Radford; Tracy Radford; Tana-Nile Coleman; and Shirley Radford. 
He was immensely blessed with 38 grandchildren and more than 100 great-
grandchildren.
  His legacy will endure in the hearts of his family and his community, 
who loved him deeply.
  May Samuel's spirit continue to inspire and uplift all who had the 
privilege of knowing him, and may Samuel Leon Radford, Jr., rest in 
peace.


          Honoring the Life and Legacy of Gerald Kaminski, Sr.

  Mr. KENNEDY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life 
and legacy of Gerald Kaminski, Sr., a dedicated public servant, 
prominent leader in the business community, beloved family man, and my 
dear friend.
  Jerry was a lifelong Cheektowaga resident and a proud veteran of the 
National Guard.
  In 1971, Jerry founded Kaminski Refrigeration with his beloved wife, 
Kathy, in Buffalo, New York. In 1990 his son Jerry, Jr., and in 1993 
his son Jamie joined the growing business, and it began operating under 
the name Kaminski & Sons.
  Since then Kaminski & Sons has provided high-quality trucking 
equipment across western New York as a locally owned, family operated 
business with Jerry at the helm.
  In 2011, Jerry chose to run for office and was elected to the 
Cheektowaga town board where he served for over a decade, most recently 
as deputy supervisor. He demonstrated that fun and good humor could be 
paired with a serious focus on delivering for our community. His 
mentorship of fellow board members, leadership, and commitment to his 
neighbors made an enduring impact on our community.
  Above all else, Jerry was a devoted husband, father, and friend. He 
celebrated more than 50 years of marriage with his wife, Kathy, and 
leaves behind his sons, Jerry, Jr., and Jamie; and seven grandchildren, 
each of whom held a special place in his heart.
  His passing is a tremendous loss, but his legacy of service and 
kindness will live on. My deepest condolences to his family and the 
Cheektowaga community.
  Gerald Kaminski, Sr., rest in peace.

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