[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 98 (Monday, July 25, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: July 25, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
                        TRIBUTE TO NELSON GRACE

                                 ______


                           HON. MARCY KAPTUR

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, July 25, 1994

  Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay special homage to a man 
of great devotion in my community. Nelson Grace, born in Evergreen, AL, 
in June 1935, died in Toledo, OH, in June 1994. Throughout his 59 
years, he gave so selflessly of himself in pursuit of the betterment of 
humankind. He was constant presence wherever the need was greatest.
  Nelson Grace arrived in Toledo after his honorable discharge from the 
U.S. Army in 1967. He immediately became an active participant in the 
affairs of our city, remaining so even after he became ill. Said one 
friend and long-time community leader:

       He touched so many lives and left a real legacy * * *. He 
     worked hard not just for African-American people, but to 
     improve things for everyone in the community.

  For years an active member of the NAACP, Nelson Grace served on the 
Toledo Chapter's executive board and as its youth adviser. He taught 
the young people how our Nation's systems of government work, as well 
as many practical elements of daily living, such as how to write a 
resume and seek employment. He also served for several years as the 
director of the Toledo Board of Community Relations.
  Perhaps Nelson's most significant public achievement was the creation 
of the Community Academy, founded in 1987. The Community Academy 
assists Toledo area youth earn their high school diplomas and provides 
encouragement to continue their education in college. Seeing the need 
for the academy's involvement in economic development, Nelson Grace 
developed the Toledo Business Development Corp., a small business 
incubator, currently comprised of 18 local companies. The incubator 
provides space to new and growing businesses, resulting in greater job 
opportunities for people in the heart of our community.
  The loss of Nelson Grace is deeply felt on both a personal and 
professional level by many. His passing leaves a void in our community 
and in our hearts. Not only was Nelson a sparkplug in our community, 
but he was a gracious and charming person who cared deeply for his 
family, his friends, and all people. There are not many times in one's 
life when one encounters a man like Nelson Grace. I and all who knew 
him feel great privilege to have shared in his life and we express our 
gratitude for his life of dedication and, yes, true Grace.

                          ____________________