[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 76 (Thursday, June 16, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: June 16, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
                  IN MEMORY OF FATHER JAMES M. DEMSKE

                                 ______


                            HON. JACK QUINN

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 16, 1994

  Mr. QUINN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in memory of my constituent, 
Father James. M. Demske, a distinguished leader, veteran, and longtime 
president of Canisius College in Buffalo who passed away last night 
after a courageous fight with leukemia.
  As Thursday morning's edition of the Buffalo News stated, ``Father 
Demske's name and face became synonymous with Canisius College.'' In my 
view, the reverend represented all of the best of the college in its 
efforts to attain academic excellence and its concern for fellow human 
beings.
  Father Demske's death is a tremendous loss to Canisius College and to 
the entire community of western New York. He was a major voice in 
numerous civic and social organizations for more than three decades.
  As the 22d president of Canisius College, his alama mater, Reverend 
Demske transformed the college from a small college into a major 
university. When he retired as president in 1993, the reverend had 
served longer than any college president in New York.
  Upon his retirement, Father Demske filled the newly created position 
of chancellor of the college. In that role he worked with alumni and 
friends in the community to bolster the college in anticipation of its 
125th anniversary in 1995.
  In addition to all of the reverend's fine accomplishments he may be 
best remembered for his sharp wit and his gift of gab. My fondest 
memories of Father Demske are watching him play his trombone in front 
of a Canisius crowd.
  At this time, I would like to join my colleagues in extending best 
wishes to the family and friends of Father James M. Demske. The 
reverend will be remembered fondly by all of those who were fortunate 
enough to know him.

                          ____________________