The Oneida Daily Dispatch (Oneida, NY)
REMEMBERED FONDLY
Former U.S. Rep. Sherwood Boehlert passes away
Utica, N.Y. — Utica native and retired U.S. Congressman Sherwood “Sherry” Boehlert has passed away at the age of 84.
The former Republican legislator served CNY across three districts during his time in Congress from 19832007.
The Utica-area resident died late Monday at a local hospice after a brief illness, according to the statement. Boehlert was chairman of the House Science Committee from 2001 through 2006. And he was a leader of a small moderate Republican faction in Congress that clashed with President George W. Bush over such issues as global warming and spending for social programs.
His love for CNY and the Utica area was evident. Boehlert was inducted into the Oneida County Historical Center’s Richard W. Couper “Living Legends” class of 2019.
On Twitter, Gov. Kathy Hochul, a Democrat, said Boehlert “was a true public servant — he didn’t serve based on political party, but based on what was the right thing to do.”
Boehlert was elected Oneida County Executive in 1979 and held the position until successfully running for Congress a few years later.
“I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Congressman Boehlert,”
said Madison County Chairman John Becker in a statement. “He dedicated his life to the Central New York community. His legacy as a public servant will live on. My thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, Marianne, his children, and his family.”
Oneida County Executive Anthony Picente stated: “I’m am deeply saddened by the passing of my long-time friend Sherwood Boehlert. Sherry was the epitome of what an elected official should be: dedicated, hardworking, effective, and always willing to reach a hand across the aisle.
“During his long and distinguished congressional career, he fought hard for the people of Oneida County, always giving us a strong voice with an emphasis on issues of science, technology, and the environment.”
Picente said he was privileged to have worked on Boehlert’s first campaign for Oneida County Executive in 1979. “I owe much of my own career to his guidance.”
Picente and his wife, Eleanor, share their thoughts and prayers with Boehlert’s wife and their entire family during this difficult time. The county executive ordered flags on all county buildings to be lowered to half-staff in his honor.
U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer, D-NY, was also saddened to learn of the passing of his “good friend.”
“Sherry and I were colleagues in the House of Representatives for fifteen years, and our friendship transcended partisanship and even included sharing a locker at the House gym,” Schumer said. “The rewards of Sherry’s dedication to his district can be seen today: whether at the former Griffiss Air Force base following the revitalization he spearheaded or as the Adirondacks teem with fish and loons thanks in no small part his work on acid rain. Sherry’s rich legacy, his support of science, his commitment to combating climate change, and his deep love for the Southern Tier and Mohawk Valley will live on for generations to come. My sincere condolences to his wife Marianne, children, and all who loved him.”
State Sen. Joseph Griffo, R-I-C-ROME, also shared his condolences with Boehlert’s family and those who are grieving his loss.
“Today we mourn the loss of a remarkable individual,” Griffo said. “Sherry was a dedicated and accomplished public servant who had an extraordinary career and proudly served his community and constituents with honor and distinction. He will be greatly missed and remembered fondly.”
He served in the U.S. Army and graduated from Utica College in 1961.
He is survived by his wife, Marianne, and four children among other relatives and friends.
Funeral arrangements were pending.