Senate Resolution No. 1540

BY: Senator ORTT

COMMENDING former Senator Rich Funke for his
illustrious service as a dedicated political leader
and strong advocate for the people of the State of
New York

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commend those individuals of distinguished purpose whose lives have been
committed to public service and the pursuit of excellence in the conduct
of the legislative process in this noble Empire State; Rich Funke is one
such individual; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commend former Senator Rich Funke for his illustrious service as a
dedicated political leader and strong advocate for the people of the
State of New York; and

WHEREAS, Senator Rich Funke was elected in 2014 to represent the
Rochester residents of the 55th Senate District, where he served with
honor and distinction from 2015 until 2020; and

WHEREAS, A Hall of Fame broadcaster and trusted community voice,
Rich Funke worked on-air at "News10NBC" Rochester for more than 40 years
until his retirement in December of 2012; and

WHEREAS, Rich Funke has given tirelessly of his time and energies to
countless charitable causes, including Golisano Children's Hospital,
Cancer Action, Ronald McDonald House, and Camp Good Days and Special
Times; and

WHEREAS, With a steadfast and unwavering commitment to his
community, Rich Funke is a member of the Monroe County Sheriff's
Foundation and served as a Lector at St. John of Rochester Church; and

WHEREAS, Rich Funke was inducted into the New York State
Broadcasters Hall of Fame in December of 2021; furthermore, the
Rochester Lancers of the Major Arena Soccer League inducted him into the
Rochester Lancers Wall of Fame as one of Rochester's "soccer pioneers";
he was the television play-by-play announcer for the original Rochester
Lancers of the North American Soccer League; and

WHEREAS, Rich Funke resides in Cary, North Carolina, with his wife,
Pat, who feels privileged to be a part of his life and rejoices in his
many achievements; and

WHEREAS, Every citizen in New York State has most certainly
benefited, in one way or another, from the deep dedication, intelligence
and commitment former Senator Rich Funke brought to his work as a
legislator, loyal friend, and trusted advisor; and

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to reflect upon
those outstanding individuals who have made everlasting contributions on

behalf of their fellow man and have truly left their mark on this great
Empire State; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
recognize and applaud the many accomplishments of former Senator Rich
Funke, and to wish him well in all his future endeavors; and be it
further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to former New York State Senator Rich Funke.