BURLINGTON, VT – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) today issued the following statement on the passing of Vermont State Senator Dick Sears:

“No one contributed more to Bennington than the extraordinary Dick Sears. He brought strength and gentleness and judgment to all he did: From founding 204 Depot Street, which provided opportunities and life skills to troubled but promising young people in need of guidance; to sitting on the Bennington Select Board, where he served with such distinction. And of course, Dick Sears’ service in the Vermont Senate, where he was a voice for justice and fairness. He combined a generous heart with kindness and humor. He, along with his beloved wife Bev who recently predeceased him, blessed all of us who knew and worked with him.”

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