Harrisburg – Feb. 10, 2015 – State Sen. Jim Brewster (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland) offered the following comments on the recent death of former U.S. Rep. Joseph M. Gaydos Sr. Gaydos served briefly in the state Senate, but he was better known for his work in congress from 1968-92.
Gaydos’ political career was rooted in the Mon Valley. He was born in Braddock, graduated from Glassport High School and lived in Liberty Borough. Gaydos was a veteran of the United States Navy where he served in the Pacific during World War II.
Brewster’s comments are as follows:
“Congressman Joe Gaydos was a dedicated public servant, patriot and representative of working men and women who made his mark both in Washington D.C. and in the Mon Valley. He fought hard for labor and to rebuild our region following economic turbulence that displaced so many workers in the 1980’s.
“While serving with presidents, senators and others during his time in congress, Joe never forgot his roots in the Mon Valley. His character was forged here and his principles were as strong as the steel that was produced in the Mon Valley. On a personal level, he always had a kind word and offered welcomed advice about how to approach a problem or a political issue.
“As a lawyer who once represented steelworkers, to his later service in the state Senate and the United States House of Representatives, Joe always wore the interests of working men and women on his sleeve. He fought to improve their lives as a member of the labor committee where his laser-like focus was on addressing critical problems that impacted workers.
“At this very difficult time, my thoughts and prayers are extended to his family and his many friends. Our region is better today because of the work of Congressman Joe Gaydos.”
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