Senator Tim Kennedy, D-Buffalo, released the following statement following the passing of Buffalo Bills’ Owner and Founder Ralph Wilson Jr.
“Considered by many Bills fans as the father of football in Buffalo and across Western New York, Ralph Wilson’s passing marks the end of an era. Mr. Wilson will be remembered as an immense figure in our city’s history who contributions extended far beyond the football field and deep into the roots of our community. Western New York would not be the same without Ralph Wilson Jr. and the Buffalo Bills.
“Western New York has experienced its fair share of hard times, but with Ralph Wilson’s ongoing support of the Buffalo Bills, we have had a strong source of pride, deep in our hearts. The Buffalo Bills have always brought our community together, and they have always lifted us higher. For all the good times we’ve shared rooting for our beloved Buffalo Bills, we have Ralph Wilson Jr. to thank. Like all sports franchises, there have been disappointments along the way, but nothing compares to the deep sadness we feel this day, as we mourn the loss of Ralph Wilson Jr.
“The Buffalo News shared a memorable quote that Ralph Wilson delivered after signing a 15-year lease deal in 1997. It is both moving and accurate, heartfelt and sincere. It shows that Ralph Wilson loved and appreciated this community, as much as we appreciated him. He said, ‘The strength of the Bills franchise is the passion of the fans. Buffalo is a community of down-to-earth, hard-working families who, in large numbers, are also avid sports fans. You know how the people here feel about you because they are very straightforward. That is a quality I admire.’ We have always admired Ralph Wilson Jr., and we mourn his passing today.”
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