It was with great sadness as I read of the passing of former New York state Sen. Frank Padavan at age 83. He was elected to state Senate in 1972 and served for 38 years.
Padavan fought hard for residents with mental health issues. He also served 30 years as a colonel in the reserved Army of Engineers. He served the people of Queens and New York state with honor and dedication.
He was also on the board of directors of the Queens Village Republican Club where I am also a member. I had worked on some of his campaigns, had posted signs and had written to various newspapers in their letters to the editor in support of Padavan.
When I was first Grand Knight of St. Anastasia Knights of Columbus in Douglaston, I had him speak at our installations of officers on issues that concern the many in our community.
Whenever I had a problem, I would write to him for help and he would respond and try to do what he could for me.
Padavan truly has cared for the concerns of the middle class. We in Queens and in this great state of New York have been truly blessed to of had Padavan as our state Senator.
Padavan, may you rest in peace for you’ve done good.
Frederick R. Bedell Jr.
Mineola
