Flatbush State Senator Kevin Parker and Fort Greene/Clinton Hill Assembly Member Walter Mosley both recalled late Kings County Democratic Party Chair Vito J. Lopez fondly and praised his work in the assembly as a lawmaker.
Lopez died at 74 Monday after battling leukemia for many years.
“For more than three decades, Vito, a former Brooklyn Democratic Leader and Assemblyman, made his mark in Brooklyn politics. Today, I pause along with all those who are mourning his death to recognize his contributions – especially during his time as Assemblyman in the 53rd Assembly District. Vito’s commitment to senior citizens was evident from the start of his career,” said Parker.
“In 1981 he organized a march of seniors at Brooklyn Borough Hall after they were being ignored and ultimately denied basic housing services. This garnered attention city-wide and ultimately resulted in Vito securing desperately needed senior housing and programs for the residents of Brooklyn. Also to his credit is the establishment of the Ridgewood Bushwick Senior Citizens Council (RBSCC), a non-profit organization that caters to the needs of senior citizens in Bushwick, Brooklyn and Ridgewood, Queens.
“With dogged determination and dedication, he waged battles for children and tenants as well as sponsoring legislation to this effect. In his memory, we salute the good work he has done as an elected official on behalf of the residents of New York State.”
Mosley said Lopez left a positive and indelible impact on Brooklyn.
“When Bushwick was a mere blight on the landscape of Brooklyn, he chose to give voice to the voiceless in Albany. He was a champion of public housing residents and the needs of senior citizens. Though his career ended in controversy and malady, I hope his family may take comfort in all the works he did on behalf his district,” said Mosley.
The wake for Lopez is slated for 2-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m., tomorrow, Thursday, November 12 and Friday, November 13 at Anastasio and Son Inc., 533 Lorimer Street (between Ainslie and Devoe Streets).
The Funeral Mass is at 9:30 a.m., Saturday, November 14 at Our Lady of the Rosary of Pompeii, 225 Seigel Street (between Bushwick Avenue and White Street).
