[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 40 (Thursday, March 21, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E403-E404]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              COMMEMORATING THE LIFE OF FREDERICK McKINNEY

                                 ______


                           HON. GLENN POSHARD

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 20, 1996

  Mr. POSHARD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of Mr. 
Frederick McKinney, who died on March 2 in Decatur, IL, at the age of 
66. Frederick lived a full life, giving not only to his family and 
friends, but to his country and community. I would like to send my 
condolences to his wife, Louise, as well as to his children, 
grandchildren, and great-grandchild, and let them know that the city of 
Decatur has lost a dear friend.

[[Page E404]]

  Originally from Chicago, Frederick served in numerous capacities, 
beginning with the Army during the Korean conflict from 1951 to 1952. 
He worked for A.E. Staley Manufacturing Co. as a draftsman for 25 
years, retiring in 1992. His dedication to Decatur society was 
vigorous, including over 3 years as president of the Decatur Chapter of 
the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People [NAACP], 
in which time he pushed hard for increased minority hiring by the 
Decatur School Board and was a tireless proponent of affirmative 
action. Frederick was an integral part of St. Peter's African 
Methodist/Episcopal Church, where he sang in the senior and male 
choirs, served as secretary of the trustees department, was in charge 
of black history, and participated in the official board of the church.
  Mr. Speaker, Frederick touched lives in his various roles, and it is 
obvious that he cared a great deal not only for his immediate circle of 
acquaintances, but tried to spread good works to all he could. This 
kind of love and commitment to community is not as prevalent as it 
should be, and I am grateful that Decatur had such a role model as 
Frederick for so many years. Frederick has been described as `` 
`effective and forceful' without being loud and antagonistic.'' I would 
ask that we all try to emulate his example. I am proud to have 
represented Frederick in the U.S. Congress, and I will remember the way 
he represented the city of Decatur.

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