(HARTFORD, CT) - Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz released the following statement regarding the passing of former Torrington Mayor Mary Jane Gryniuk:

“I was saddened to learn of Mary Jane Gryniuk passing. As a trailblazer and role model among women and municipal government, Mary Jane was one of the first female mayors of Torrington. I had the pleasure of meeting her in 1998 when I was first running for Secretary of the State. She was a trusted advisor and mentor to me.

Prior to serving as mayor, she was a paralegal in a busy law firm in her hometown of Torrington. Having that experience taught her the importance of working hard for individuals and families. It taught her how to be in command of the details and to serve her constituents with compassion and with follow-through.

Mary Jane had a strong sense of fiscal acumen and managed the city’s finances with the same amount of care that she gave her own household budget. Having grown up, worked, and raised her family in Torrington, she knew each citizen by name.

I know that many in public service will miss her advice and wise counsel. Our hearts go out to Mary Jane’s family and friends.”