Former GOP Committee Chairman Nolan mourned
SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. » Family and friends are mourning the passing of longtime former Saratoga County Republican Committee Chairman John “Jasper” Nolan who died Sunday at 83.
During his tenure, Nolan assisted in winning seats in Congress, the state Senate and Assembly, countywide offices, a majority on the Saratoga County Board of Supervisors, plus many local town, village and city positions.
He chaired the party for 27 years before announcing in July 2012 he would not seek reelection to the post.
“This weekend, Saratoga County lost one of its greatest champions, John ‘Jasper’ Nolan,” said Carl Zeilman, current GOP county chairman. “Jasper was a giant of a man who led the Saratoga County Republican Committee for nearly three decades, achieving unmatched electoral success. Under his leadership, Saratoga County grew into one of the most successful counties in the state, with a thriving economy and growing population.
“Chairman Nolan was recognized across the state as a king maker in the party, but to most of us he was a mentor, a friend, a leader, and a man who epitomized the values and commitment we hold so dear,” Zeilman added. “On behalf of all the entire Republican Committee, I offer my most sincere sympathy to the Nolan family and ask that we all hold them in our prayers in this trying time.”
Former state Senate Majority Leader Joseph L. Bruno said, “Jasper was truly a great and caring man who proved to be a winning and resourceful leader in Saratoga County politics. He was a tireless advocate for local and statewide Republicans, and like many others, I considered him a good friend and an even better person.”
Nolan continued to lead the party after retiring from Corinth Central Schools where he taught social studies from 1959-93, chairing the department for the last 10 of those years.
Upon stepping aside as county GOP chair in 2012, Nolan said working with numerous people and learning about the unique character of each community was the most rewarding part of his career.
“If it didn’t exist and you had to imagine the greatest place to live, work, visit and raise your family, you’d create somewhere identical to Saratoga County,” Nolan said. “It’s truly a testament to the people who live here.”