WHEREAS, Robert Jordan Berkstresser, accomplished businessman, esteemed public servant, and beloved member of the Lexington community, died on April 14, 2022; and

WHEREAS, Robert "Bobby" Berkstresser attended Danville Community College while working both at Westinghouse Electric Corporation and part time at Midway Machine and Parts, Inc.; and

WHEREAS, in 1975, Bobby Berkstresser realized his dream of owning his own business when he and his cousin Dick opened their own store, Auto Parts and Supply; and

WHEREAS, Bobby Berkstresser developed an impressive portfolio of travel centers and truck stops along the Interstate 81 corridor with the purchase of LEE-HI Travel Plaza in 1981 and White's Travel Center in 2010, building the latter from an operation with eight employees into the largest travel center on the East Coast; and

WHEREAS, Bobby Berkstresser gave generously of his time and resources to various local organizations, supporting fire departments, charities, schools, the local chapter of Habitat for Humanity, and the United Way of Rockbridge, Lexington & Buena Vista; and

WHEREAS, Bobby Berkstresser's leadership was valued on the boards of the Bank of Botetourt, the Rockbridge Area YMCA, the United Way of Rockbridge, Lexington & Buena Vista, the former Carilion Stonewall Jackson Hospital, the Rockbridge Area Republican Committee, the National Association of Truck Stop Operators (NATSO), and more; and

WHEREAS, Bobby Berkstresser proudly represented his constituents as a member of the Rockbridge County Board of Supervisors and contributed greatly to the locality's growth and development over his tenure; and

WHEREAS, Bobby Berkstresser was recognized for his impact in the community and for his efforts to advance the truck stop and travel center industry with his induction into the NATSO Hall of Fame in 2018; and

WHEREAS, guided throughout his life by his faith, Bobby Berkstresser enjoyed worship and fellowship with his community at Marlbrook Baptist Church in Raphine for many years; and

WHEREAS, Bobby Berkstresser will be fondly remembered and dearly missed by his loving wife of 26 years, Sue; his children, Jordan, Kevin, and Corey, and their families; and numerous other family members and friends; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of Virginia hereby note with great sadness the loss of Robert Jordan Berkstresser, a pillar of the Lexington community whose dedication and commitment to serving others were an inspiration to all who knew him; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the Senate prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the family of Robert Jordan Berkstresser as an expression of the Senate of Virginia's respect for his memory.