[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 198 (Wednesday, December 13, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2346-E2347]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    LEBANON MAYOR KENNETH COWAN DIES

                                 ______


                            HON. IKE SKELTON

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, December 12, 1995

  Mr. SKELTON. Mr. Speaker, a leading Missouri citizen, the mayor of 
Lebanon, and a good friend, Kenneth Cowan, died October 17, 1995. He 
was 79 years of age. During his tenure as mayor, Cowan led the city of 
Lebanon 

[[Page E2347]]
into an era of major growth. He was known for his vision and devotion 
to duty.
  Cowan had served on the city council during the administration of 
mayor Wallace Earp. Earp resigned on April 18, 1977, and Cowan was 
elected mayor in a special election on June 7, 1977. He was re-elected 
to office in 1980, 1984, 1988 and 1992.
  He was born in Richland, Missouri where he graduated from high 
school. He attended Southwest Missouri State University in Springfield 
and served in the U.S. Air Force during World War II.
  Cowan entered into public service in Richland in 1948 when he was 
elected to the city council. He served in that capacity 10 years. He 
moved to Lebanon in 1958 and bought Burley's Department Store, which he 
operated until he was elected mayor.
  During his years in office, he received the support of Lebanon voters 
on key issues including a sales tax, transportation sales tax, and a 
capital improvements sales tax.
  Mayor Cowan set a high standard for public service. His ability to 
lead and to get things done for his community should inspire those who 
follow. The people of Lebanon have lost an exceptional leader, and I 
have lost a friend.

                          ____________________