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[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1066-E1067]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
IN HONOR OF MR. WILLIAM ``BILL'' BATTLE
______
HON. ELIZABETH H. ESTY
of connecticut
in the house of representatives
Wednesday, July 25, 2018
Ms. ESTY of Connecticut. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart
to honor the life of my friend, Mr. William ``Bill'' Battle and to
recognize his contributions to the State of Connecticut, especially to
his community of Torrington, Connecticut. Bill passed away on July 20,
2018 at the age of 82, after a long life of dedicated service to his
community.
Bill was born in New York, New York and was raised in New Haven,
Connecticut. Bill attended New Haven public schools before enrolling at
Howard University in Washington, D.C. After college, Bill joined the
Army where he worked on computers. Bill continued in computers when he
left the Army, traveling the world for IBM. Bill eventually returned to
Connecticut to be near his ailing mother. It was here where he met his
wife Darlene, who was working as a nurse's aide. The two married in
1994, and after their son was born they moved to Torrington.
After moving to Torrington, Bill fell in love with the small city.
Serving as the economic development commissioner for a brief time, Bill
worked to celebrate Torrington's educational excellence and attract
young families while reviving the city's downtown through a focus on
the arts and small business. In addition to working closely with town
leaders to improve the city's economy, Bill also advocated for children
and education in Torrington. Serving on the Board of Directors for the
Connecticut Academy of the Arts in Torrington, Bill helped bring the
arts back to the Torrington community and is credited for helping start
the international film forum.
Ultimately, Bill loved anything intellectual and enjoyed discussing
ideas with his fellow community members. While working as the campaign
coordinator for former Democratic Senator Joe Lieberman, Bill would
frequently have dinner at the Republican campaign headquarters because
he just wanted to engage in political discourse. His Republican
colleagues stated that all Bill ever wanted was to see Torrington do
better.
Those who knew Bill knew that nothing gave him more pride than seeing
his children succeed. Bill could often be seen wearing a Yale hat to
show his immense delight when his son, Darnell, was accepted to the
University.
I met Bill seven years ago and was immediately impressed by his
passion, his knowledge, his energy, and his fearlessness in taking on
tough issues and those in power. His commitment to democracy and his
belief that we all could--and should--do better inspired
[[Page E1067]]
me and everyone who was lucky enough to know him.
Mr. Speaker, Bill Battle led a life as an engaged community member
and community activist. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we
honor his life and memory here today. I offer my deepest condolences to
his wife, Darlene and his children, Carla, Darnell, Violetta, and
William and to all of his family. Those of us who knew Bill will
cherish his memory, and his legacy will live on in our community.
____________________
