Higgins honors life & legacy of Western New York historic preservation champion Robert Kresse

Congressman Brian Higgins spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives this week to honor the life and legacy of Robert Kresse. Known for championing projects to improve Buffalo and preserve historic buildings in Western New York, Kresse’s efforts resulted in the establishment of the Niagara River Greenway, as well as the preservation of the King Urban Life Center, the Roycroft Inn, and the Darwin Martin House, among others.

In remarks on the House floor, Higgins said:

“Mr. speaker, I rise to honor the life and legacy of Robert Kresse, a Western New York champion for those who had none. Bob Kresse combined his lawyerly skills for estates and historic preservation to become a powerful force for good in Buffalo for 70 years.

“Bob Kresse knew well that his vision went beyond the bricks and mortar of preservation, it was the restorative power of preservation on the hearts of the people, in the community that he loved, that mattered most.

“Bob Kresse is survived by his beautiful family, including his beloved wife of 56 years, Mary Ann, and, as Bob would often say, Mary Ann didn’t just love him back – she was his chief collaborator and best friend, always, especially in those last most difficult days.

“The Niagara River Greenway, the King Urban Life Center, the Roycroft Inn, the Darwin Martin House, among so many others have a common thread, and that is Bob Kresse’s uncommon vision, love and perseverance.”