[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 55 (Thursday, April 25, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E651]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     TRIBUTE TO MR. HARRY A. FOSTER

                                 ______


                             HON. DAVE CAMP

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 25, 1996

  Mr. CAMP. Mr. Speaker, it is with sadness that I rise today to honor 
and pay tribute to a man who devoted much of his life helping and 
improving the lives of others through his devotion to Michigan's 
agricultural heritage. Harry A. Foster passed away recently in his home 
in Okemos, MI on March 11, 1996.
  Harry was born and raised on his family's farm in southwestern 
Michigan where he excelled in 4-H and Future Farmers of America [FFA] 
projects. At a young age, he earned his American Farmer Degree while 
active in the FFA and served as State President of the Michigan Farm 
Bureau of Young People. He was also an alumnus of Michigan State 
University's Agricultural Technology Program and earned a B.S. degree 
in Agricultural Economics.
  After graduation, Harry served as a 4-H extension agent in Livingston 
County. In 1961, he became the initial employee of the Michigan 
Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Association [MACMA] where he 
provided 27 years of outstanding service. After serving MACMA, he 
became Executive Director of the Michigan Asparagus and Michigan Plum 
Advisory Boards where his contributions were numerous. Mr. Foster's 
long and distinguished professional career is a testament to his 
dedication and to his genuine concern for agriculture and farmers in 
Michigan and around the country.
  Harry's community involvement extended beyond his professional 
career. He was an active member of the Okemos Community Church and 
served as president of the Okemos Board of Education. Due to his 
outstanding advocacy and his enduring compassion, he courageously 
envisioned and founded the Dyslexia Resource Center.
  Harry took great pride in the relationships he developed in the 
Nation's Capitol on behalf of the producers and their marketing 
interests he represented so fervently. Many of the actions of this 
genuine farmer's friend have benefitted producers and their attendant 
industries across the United States.
  Mr. Speaker, I know you will join me in celebrating the many 
accomplishments and achievements of Harry Foster and in honoring his 
memory.

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