In Speech on House Floor, Rep. Kennedy Pays Tribute to “Champion for Our City,” Jonathan Dandes

Dandes, Longtime Member of UB Council, Past Chair of ECMC Board, and President of Rich Baseball Operations, Leaves an Indelible Legacy on the City of Good Neighbors

A Tireless Leader for Buffalo, Dandes Passed Away in February at Age 72

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In a speech on the floor of the House of Representatives, Congressman Tim Kennedy paid tribute to the life and legacy of Jonathan Dandes, a giant of Buffalo's philanthropic community and the guiding force behind the return of professional baseball to Downtown Buffalo. Dandes, who was born and raised in Queens before putting down roots in Western New York after graduating from the University at Buffalo, passed away last month at age 72. A five-term member of the UB Council, past Chair of the Erie County Medical Center Board of Directors, and President of Rich Baseball Operations, Dandes was known throughout the region for his dedication to civic life in the City of Good Neighbors.

"Jon's legacy lives on in the community he helped build, the lives he touched, and the spirit of service he embodied," said Congressman Kennedy. "When Western New Yorkers spend an afternoon with their family rooting on the Bisons, that's Jon Dandes's legacy in action. When their loved ones receive life-saving care at ECMC, we can thank Jon Dandes for his tireless work to strengthen our region's only Level 1 trauma hospital. And when the next generation of UB grads decide to stay here and call Western New York home, that, too, is a testament to Jon's unwavering vision and leadership for our region. Western New York is a better place to live, work, and raise a family because Jon Dandes chose to call it home."

Kennedy's Full Remarks Available Here.

Dandes was predeceased by his wife, Marcy. He was the proud father of Leo and Arin, and beloved grandfather to Luca and Leif. His work included countless mentorships and leadership roles with organizations such as the National Kidney Foundation, Upstate New York Transplant Services, and Erie County Jewish Family Services.

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