[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 82 (Thursday, May 15, 2025)]
[House]
[Pages H2055-H2056]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF JOHN FEROLETO
(Mr. Kennedy of New York was recognized to address the House for 5
minutes.)
Mr. KENNEDY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life
and legacy of a truly remarkable Buffalonian, John Feroleto. John
passed away unexpectedly on April 6 at the age of 71.
John Feroleto was more than a distinguished trial lawyer, he was a
devoted family man, a pillar of our community, and a shining example of
the American Dream.
Growing up on Buffalo's West Side as the son of a construction worker
and a beautician, John became the first in his family to attend
college, working his way through school by starting his own house
painting business at just 16 years old. His determination led him to
the University at Buffalo School of Law, where he met his wife of
nearly 45 years, Paula, who is now a highly respected State Supreme
Court judge.
Together, they built not just a loving family but a legacy that has
profoundly shaped all of western New York. For more than 35 years, John
dedicated his career to fighting for his clients and standing up for
those who couldn't stand up for themselves.
He established Feroleto Law, which grew into a family enterprise with
his children John, Joel, and Kate all following in his footsteps as
attorneys.
His son John was recently appointed to the Buffalo city court, while
Joel represents the Delaware District on the Buffalo Common Council,
and Kate is a renowned attorney at the family practice, Feroleto Law.
In the courtroom, John took on the most challenging cases not for
personal gain but because it was the right thing to do, but his
contributions extended well beyond the courtroom. He was instrumental
in founding the New York State Trial Lawyers Association Western New
York Chapter, serving as its second president.
He established a paid internship program with his wife to provide
high school students from all backgrounds with legal experience, and he
was a generous supporter of numerous community causes from collecting
winter gloves for the needy to sponsoring fundraisers for organ
transplant recipients and Down syndrome organizations.
While he achieved great professional success, John never forgot his
roots or the importance of family. John was deeply proud of his Italian
heritage and kept traditions that had been passed down through
generations of family alive, including making homemade wine.
John found joy in life's simple pleasures, tending to his vegetable
garden, running marathons, and spending summers with his beloved
grandchildren at their family cottage in Thunder Bay, Ontario.
Western New York has lost an extraordinary advocate, mentor, and
friend. John Feroleto's legacy lives on not just through his legal
achievements but through the countless lives he has touched with his
generosity, his compassion, and his unwavering commitment to justice.
I extend my deepest condolences to Paula; their children, John P.,
Joel, and Kate; and their six grandchildren. Western New York stands
with them in remembering a life well-lived and a legacy that will
inspire generations to come.
Mr. Speaker, may John Feroleto's memory be a blessing, and may his
example of service and devotion to family continue to guide us all. May
he rest in peace.
Remembering the Life of Marc J. Meyers
Mr. KENNEDY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life
of Marc J. Meyers, a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, and a
public servant who was taken from us too soon.
Born to the late Kenneth and Joan Meyers and raised alongside his
siblings, Lisa, Tim, and the late Guy Meyers, Marc was the heart of his
family and a steady presence in our community.
A longtime employee of the town of Cheektowaga and brother to Erie
County Legislative Chairman Tim Meyers, he worked to make life better
for his neighbors.
He found joy in the simple things: family vacations to Rhode Island,
fishing, golf, Bills games, and quiet afternoons with his dog,
Lambchop.
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Marc's kindness, humility, and dedication defined him, and his legacy
will live on in all that knew him.
I send my prayers and deepest condolences to his wife, Pam; their
children, Colin and Taylor; their six grandchildren; his surviving
siblings; extended family; and all who loved him. Western New York has
lost one of our finest. May Marc Meyers rest in peace.
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