LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION mourning the death of William J. Bandera Sr.,
distinguished citizen and devoted member of his 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 endeavor
served to enhance the quality of life in their communities and the great
State of New York; and
WHEREAS, William J. Bandera Sr., of Vestal, New York, died on Wednes-
day, February 3, 2010, at the age of 76; and
WHEREAS, In 1953, William J. Bandera Sr. became a member of the United
States Army, and served his country during the Korean War, before being
honorably discharged in 1955; and
WHEREAS, William J. Bandera Sr. distinguished himself in his profes-
sion and by his sincere dedication and substantial contribution to the
welfare of his community; his working career was spent with IBM, from
which he retired in 1990; and
WHEREAS, William J. Bandera Sr.'s commitment to excellence, and his
spirit of humanity, carried over into all fields of enterprise, includ-
ing charitable and civic endeavors; and
WHEREAS, He was an active member of the American Legion since 1985,
serving in many positions, including Commander of Post 80, Broome County
Commander, 6th District Commander, and, at the time of his death, he was
the Department of New York Vice Commander from both the 5th and 6th
Districts; and
WHEREAS, In 1989, William J. Bandera Sr. and his wife, Carolyn, found-
ed the free Christmas Dinner, an annual event held at the American
Legion Post 80 that, in 2009, provided over 3,000 meals; and
WHEREAS, Predeceased by his parents; his brother, Valentino; and one
son, Paul, William J. Bandera Sr. is survived by his loving wife of 47
years, Carolyn; his son, William Jr.; and his daughter-in-law, Loretta;
as well as several grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins; and
WHEREAS, Armed with a humanistic spirit, imbued with a sense of
compassion, and comforted by a loving family, William J. Bandera Sr.
leaves behind a legacy which will long endure the passage of time and
will remain as a comforting memory to all he served and befriended; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
mourn the death of William J. Bandera Sr., distinguished citizen and
devoted member of his community; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to the family of William J. Bandera Sr.