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Late South Side mayor was a devoted community leader

Genuine and devoted to South Williamsport, the late Mayor David Lechniak was revered by his friends and colleagues.

Lechniak recently passed away due to complications of COVID-19. He was 65.

“Mayor Dave was one of the most genuine, caring and comical politicians I have ever had the pleasure of working with on many projects,” borough resident Dori Rankinen said.

“We not only collaborated on the South Williamsport Mummers’ Parade, but also the Our Town special on WVIA,” she said.

“I remember that during the taping of the Our Town special, he was intent on wearing his cowboy hat,” Rankinen said. “The original taping did not go well due to nerves,” she said. “He and I went out together to his favorite places in South Williamsport and redid his thoughts,” Rankinen said. “It was perfect, quintessential Dave Lechniak.”

“I will always remember his constant smile to no matter what the situation may be,” said Robert Hetner, retired borough police chief and lifetime member with Lechniak on the Citizens Fire Department.

“Working together provided the opportunity to collaborate on police and fire service,” Hetner said.

“I appreciated the mayor’s support for me during the time I was the borough’s police chief and wish the family well during these difficult times,” Hetner said.

Lechniak was a leader in difficult times, no matter political persuasion and always seeking the best for the taxpayers, said Steven W. Cappelli, borough manager and public safety director.

“The passing of the mayor has been very painful for me, as I know it has been for his wonderful wife, Christine, and their family,” Cappelli said.

“There hasn’t been a day since the death that I haven’t thought about him with reverence, fondness and profound sorrow,” he said.

“To me, his lasting legacy is indeed the very life of family, faith and service he devoted himself to for more than four and a half decades,” Cappelli said.

Lechniak made safety and support of the police his foremost priority, he said.

“He played a critical role in completing the successful negotiations that produced a shared police services contract with the Borough of DuBoistown,” Cappelli said.

“The mayor lived a life we should all try and emulate,” Cappelli said.

“If we do, we will achieve something more meaningful and impactful during the time we have on this earth,” Cappelli said.

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