Vermont Speaker of the House Mitzi Johnson (April 9, 2019): It is with great sadness that I share the news that Representative Robert Forguites (D-Springfield) passed away. On behalf of all Vermonters, I extend my heartfelt condolences to Bob’s family, especially his beloved son, Adam. The Vermont General Assembly already feels the loss of our steady and dedicated friend and colleague. (Seven Days reports that Johnson told members Tuesday he was found Monday to have died in his sleep.)
Representative Robert Forguites (D-Springfield). State House photo.
Bob was a much-loved member of the Vermont General Assembly, to which he was first elected in 2014. Bob’s fellow members on the Committees of Natural Resources, Fish, and Wildlife Committee as well as Energy and Technology appreciated his quiet, careful listening. He did not speak often, but when he did, it was to bridge divides and people listened. Bob brought great integrity and thoughtfulness to his work. He is distinguished for his perspective on municipal government, having served sixteen years as Springfield Town Manager. I will most remember him for how he embodied the best of Vermont in his hard work, non-partisanship, compassion, and above all, keeping the people of this state at the forefront of every decision.
On January 26, 2016, Bob delivered a devotional to the House of Representatives sharing his dream of serving in the General Assembly and his vision for the future of Vermont. An excerpt from that speech is below. Bob will be sorely missed.
“I dream of the day when all of the issues discussed in this building will be settled in a manner that is good for all of the people of the State of Vermont and not necessarily what is good for us individually or our political affiliation.
“You may say ‘those are just dreams and dreams don’t come true.’ All I can say is whoever would have thought that I would be standing here today speaking in front of you? So - I invite you - come and dream with me. If we dream and work together, who knows what great and wonderful things we might accomplish.”
-Representative Bob Forguites
Governor Phil Scott also today issued the following statement regarding the passing of Vermont State Representative Robert Forguites.
“I am sad to learn of the sudden passing of Rep. Robert Forguites. I join with Bob’s fellow legislators and constituents in mourning this loss. Bob will be remembered for his dedication to the people of Springfield—for both his many years in local government and for his time in the Vermont House of Representatives—as well as his service for all Americans during his tenure in the U.S. Army. In the State House, Bob always put his constituents first and was known for his independent voice. His years of service are greatly appreciated, and my thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues during this difficult time.”
Legislative Biography
Representative Robert Forguites
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