LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION mourning the death of James E. Bodkin, distin-
guished citizen and devoted member of his community

WHEREAS, It is with great sorrow and deep regret that this Legislative
Body records the passing of James E. Bodkin, noting the significance of
his purposeful life and accomplishments; and
WHEREAS, James E. Bodkin will be long remembered for his unwavering
service to the City of Buffalo Fire Department, where he served, with
honor and distinction, as a firefighter, a leader, and an instructor;
and
WHEREAS, James E. Bodkin distinguished himself in his profession and
by his sincere dedication and substantial contribution to the welfare of
his community; and
WHEREAS, Born in Buffalo's Old First Ward, James Bodkin graduated from
Bishop Timon High School in South Buffalo; shortly after graduation he
was drafted into the United States Army and served in the Vietnam War,
including one year overseas in Vietnam; and
WHEREAS, James Bodkin was dedicated to the work of serving and
protecting others; he joined the Buffalo Fire Department upon his return
from the war and worked his way up to the esteemed position of Lieuten-
ant; and
WHEREAS, James Bodkin, after receiving numerous commendations for
exemplary conduct, actions and deeds, became an instructor at the
department's fire training tower, setting a standard of excellence for
future generations of firefighters; and
WHEREAS, In 2000, James Bodkin entered a well-earned retirement,
moving to Lakeland, Florida, with his wife, Maureen; he was an avid
golfer, playing five days each week; and
WHEREAS, In addition to Maureen, his wife of 46 years, James Bodkin is
survived by a daughter, Denise Reynolds; two sons, Steven and Gregory; a
sister, Mary Greber; and two brothers, Jack and Tom; and
WHEREAS, Armed with a humanistic spirit, imbued with a sense of
compassion, and graced by a loving family, James E. Bodkin 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 James E. Bodkin, 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 James E. Bodkin.