Statement on the passing of Bartell Zachry

I was terribly saddened to hear of the passing of Bartell Zachry. We all know and recognize the Zachry name as one of San Antonio’s most important and successful construction companies. What you may not know is that Bartell Zachry was a gentleman in every sense of the word. One of the privileges of being CEO of the Chamber is meeting the most thoughtful, visionary, and caring business, community, and elected leaders in San Antonio. I had the honor of meeting Bartell in early 2003, as I prepared to run for the San Antonio City Council. Bartell welcomed me into his office on the Southside and was cordial but very direct in asking me about my motivation to run for public office. When I walked out of his office about 45 minutes later, I knew I had met a Titan of the San Antonio Business Community and a Friend for life. My last interaction with Bartell was at the 50^th Anniversary Celebration of the Palacio del Rio, the iconic Riverwalk Hotel that has its own storied history. I was sitting with Mayor Lila Cockrell, and he came over and joined us for a few minutes. It was a complete joy to listen to them relive Hemisphere ’68 and other iconic milestones in San Antonio’s history. Our deepest and sincerest condolences to his Family, Friends, and the Team at the Zachry companies.  Rest in Peace my Friend. Richard Perez President & CEO, San Antonio Chamber of Commerce