I join with my colleagues in government and with the good people of Staten Island in mourning the loss of Senator John Marchi. I had the honor and the privilege of serving with this extraordinary leader in the New York State Legislature for many years. Senator Marchi's wisdom, compassion and sense of duty had a lasting effect on all who served with him. His remarkable record of election and re-election spoke clearly to the respect and the love he had for the members of his Staten Island community, and they for him. John Marchi was a public servant for all seasons and certainly, a New Yorker deserving of our recognition and our gratitude.

I offer the prayers and extend the sympathy of the New York State Assembly to the Marchi Family and to his many friends and supporters.