[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 107 (Friday, July 19, 1996)]
[Senate]
[Page S8384]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                            THOMAS J. COOGAN

 Mr. LEVIN. Mr. President, I rise to honor the memory of Thomas 
J. Coogan, the longtime mayor of Melvindale, MI, who passed away on 
December 11, 1995. Tom had been fighting lung cancer and back problems 
since January 1995, while valiantly continuing to fulfill his duties as 
mayor. A month before his death, Tom won an unprecedented 11th term as 
mayor. During his 20-year career as mayor of Melvindale, Tom Coogan's 
name became synonymous with the city.
  He was an activist mayor who became involved in many causes he felt 
would benefit the residents of Melvindale. He championed environmental 
initiatives and directed the building of several parks and a recreation 
center. He also provided leadership in the diversification of the 
city's industrial base and the construction of a city hall complex. Tom 
was an advocate for senior-citizen rights and introduced several 
programs for older residents.
  One of Tom's proudest achievements was the construction of a senior 
citizens' building named Coogan Terrace in his honor. He was the 
driving force behind this center which has benefited so many of 
Melvindale's elderly. It is a fitting tribute to Tom that this building 
which bears his name will continue serving the people of Melvindale 
long after he has left us.
  During his fight with cancer, Tom was forced to close the barbershop 
he opened in 1965 in order to continue working as mayor. The barbershop 
served him well as a ``mini city hall'' where he always made himself 
available to the people of Melvindale. It was this ability to 
communicate well with people that made Coogan such an effective mayor.
  I know that my Senate colleagues join me in honoring the passing of 
this great mayor and man, Thomas J. Coogan.

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