Governor Corbett Issues Statement on Death of Governor Scranton

HARRISBURG, Pa., July 29, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Governor Tom Corbett today issued the following statement on the death of former Pennsylvania Governor William Warren "Bill" Scranton.

"Governor Scranton was a world-class leader in government. He will be remembered as a man of humility, honesty, dignity and integrity.

"Descending from a distinguished family with a long history of public service, Scranton made his mark as congressman, governor, and U.S. ambassador to the United Nations.

"He was a member of the Greatest Generation, putting his own dreams on hold to serve as a pilot during World War II, returning home to lead by example as he served his fellow Pennsylvanians,'' Corbett said.

Scranton served as Pennsylvania's 38^th governor from 1963 to 1967. During his administration, major reforms were created in the educational system, including the community college system, the State Board of Education and the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency, as well as the Council of Science and Technology to advocate for new technical training programs.

In 2000, Scranton became the third recipient of the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission's Pennsylvania Founders Award, for representing the ideals of William Penn in individual rights, religious toleration, representative government, public support of education and free enterprise.

"Susan and I mourn the passing of this distinguished man and offer our sincerest condolences to his wife, Mary, and their family. We will always be grateful for Governor Scranton's service and the legacy he left our great commonwealth.''

Scranton died Sunday at the age of 96.

Media contact:  Kevin Harley, 717-783-1116

SOURCE Pennsylvania Office of the Governor