Senate Resolution No. 1939
BY: Senator COONEY
MOURNING the death of Freddi Macek, distinguished
citizen and devoted member of her community
WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to pay tribute to
citizens of the State of New York whose lifework and civic endeavors
served to enhance the quality of life in their communities and the great
State of New York; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to mourn
the death of Freddi Macek, distinguished citizen and devoted member of
her community; and
WHEREAS, On August 21, 1940, Freddi Macek was born to Frederick and
Julianna Macek in Utica, New York, and grew up with two sisters, Susann
and Jayne; she worked at a local bakery while going to school at
Whitesboro High School; and
WHEREAS, After graduating from high school, Freddi Macek received
her bachelor's degree in social studies from Utica College and completed
her graduate work in early childhood education; and
WHEREAS, Freddi Macek spent her entire 33-year career as a 2nd-grade
teacher in the Rochester City School District, touching thousands of
lives and acting as a staunch advocate for her students and fellow
teachers; she tirelessly stood up for anyone and everyone; and
WHEREAS, Upon retirement, Freddi Macek did not slow down; instead,
she became an even stronger and more dedicated labor union advocate; for
years, she worked with the Rochester Teachers Association (RTA) and the
New York State United Teachers (NYSUT) and held both elected and
appointed positions, including that of Vice-President of the RTA; and
WHEREAS, Freddi Macek continued her union work as Labor Liaison for
NYSUT Retiree Council 5; she also held the position of Rochester Central
Labor Council AFL/CIO Retiree Committee Chair Coordinator and
passionately led the Rochester area election phone banks; and
WHEREAS, Even in her 80s, Freddi Macek would routinely travel for
hours to make presentations to retiree conferences and union meetings;
she shaped the union's path and inspired generations of members with her
determination and compassion; and
WHEREAS, Freddi Macek is survived by her niece, Lisa, and her
husband, Chris Davis; and her nephew, Joel Meyers; she was predeceased
by her parents, Frederick and Julianna Macek; sisters, Jayne Meyers and
Susann Mlynarski; and brother-in-law, Ray Mlynarski; and
WHEREAS, Known for her patience, humor, and boundless passion,
Freddi Macek's legacy will perpetuate through every student, educator,
advocate, and friend she inspired; this community-minded, organized,
determined, fun, and energetic teacher, union advocate, and leader will
be immensely missed by all who were fortunate to know her; and
WHEREAS, Freddi Macek distinguished herself in her profession and by
her dedication and contribution to the welfare of her community, State,
and Nation; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that those
dedicated individuals who devote their lives to the betterment of their
communities are worthy and due praise for their commitment and
endeavors; and
WHEREAS, Armed with a humanistic spirit and imbued with a sense of
compassion, Freddi Macek leaves a legacy which will endure the passage
of time and remain a memory to all she served and befriended; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
mourn the death of Freddi Macek, distinguished citizen and devoted
member of her community; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of Freddi Macek.
