The following statement about the death of Pittsburgh Mayor Bob O'Connor was read by Luke Ravenstahl after being sworn in as the city's new mayor on Sept. 1, 2006.

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It is difficult to find the proper words to express my emotions at this time. Today is a day of great sorrow and grief for the entire City of Pittsburgh. Bob O'Connor is a beloved friend and colleague and his words and deeds will serve as a model to my tenure as Mayor. I ask all of Pittsburgh to join Judy O'Connor and the O'Connor family in our time of grief and offer prayers and support as we mourn Bob's passing and celebrate his life and career of helping others. To everything there is a season and a time for every purpose. The time will come for Pittsburgh to continue on with our mission. Now is the time for us to look back and reflect on what Mayor Bob O'Connor has meant to Pittsburgh. God bless the O'Connor family and God bless Pittsburgh.