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HomeNewsArchivesSt. Croix Loses One of its Greatest Champions

St. Croix Loses One of its Greatest Champions

Sept. 23, 2004 — Frank Fox, immediate past president of the St. Croix Chamber of Commerce, died Monday. The cause of his death was not known; however, people close to Fox said he had been experiencing medical problems and had recently traveled to the mainland for treatment.
Fox served as Chamber president in 2002-2003. During that time the Chamber expressed strong opinions on several issues relevant to the economy of St. Croix. Fox decried the 25th Legislature's decision to allow video lottery terminals to remain legal in St. Croix. He spoke against the Unitime watch factory closure and presented a 2003 Economic Recovery Plan to Gov. Charles W. Turnbull. The plan was a multifaceted approach to solving the territory's fiscal problems. (See "St..Croix Business Community's Recovery Plan" ).
The St. Croix community expressed sorrow Wednesday at Fox's passing.
Anna Hector, Chamber president, said the news of Fox's death was "quite shocking." She extended condolences on behalf of Chamber members. "The Chamber has lost a stalwart advocate for business," Hector said. "Frank had a pro-business attitude. I send my sympathy to his wife."
Fox succeeded attorney Kevin Rames as Chamber president. Rames said Fox was a "champion of small business on St. Croix and a tireless advocate for entrepreneurship. Frank had an infectious, candid attitude that inspired people around him. He will be sorely missed."
Sgt. Thomas Hannah, police spokesman, speaking on behalf of Police Commissioner Elton Lewis and the department, said, "We have lost a good and kind man. Frank was well liked and had the best interest of St. Croix at heart."
Lt. Gov. Vargrave Richards extended his sympathy to Fox's family and friends in a press release issued Thursday. "Frank Fox was a staunch advocate for economic development on St. Croix. Mr. Fox was an astute businessman with a friendly disposition who always had the best interest of St. Croix at heart. He will be sorely missed," Richards said.
Fox's wife, Beverly, said her husband fell in love with St. Croix the first time he set foot on the island. She said she will be bringing him back to St. Croix, the place he thought of as home.
Funeral arrangements are pending.

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