[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 91 (Wednesday, June 25, 1997)]
[Senate]
[Pages S6289-S6290]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  THE RETIREMENT OF ROBERT J. OPINSKY

  Mr. STEVENS. Mr. President, after a distinguished 40-year career with 
the U.S. Postal Service and its predecessor the Post Office Department, 
my good friend Robert J. Opinsky is retiring.
  Bob traveled to Alaska in 1956 for a summer vacation. By the time the 
vacation was over, Bob was ready to become a full-time Alaskan.
  He began working with the Post Office Department in Anchorage that 
year in 1956. By 1970, having served in almost every capacity at the 
Post Office, he was named Anchorage Postmaster.
  When the Anchorage Division was created in 1986, Bob became Division 
Manager. He was the top Postal Service official in our state, 
responsible for the delivery and retail operations of all 209 post 
offices in Alaska.
  There have been tremendous challenges during Bob's career, and he's 
met them with his characteristic quiet efficiency.
  One example is how he managed to keep the mail flowing after Alaska's 
1964 earthquake, which I remind the Senate measured 9.2 on the Richter 
scale.
  Bob was foreman of delivery and collection at that time.
  He worked around the clock and kept the mail moving, even though much 
of what we call southcentral Alaska was brought to its knees by the 
disaster.
  As our population increased after North Slope oil was discovered and 
production began, Bob led a team which built and updated more than 50 
post offices in a hurry to keep up with the growing number of Alaskans.
  In his quiet manner, Bob made sure the task was accomplished quickly 
and efficiently.
  Bob has also ensured that distinguished postal officials learn about 
Alaska.
  Hosting several Postmasters General, the entire Postal Service Board 
of Governors and members of the Postal Rate Commission on their visits 
to Alaska, Bob has given them a firsthand view of the beauty of our 
State, and also an awareness of our unique problems.
  I have traveled with Bob to postal functions all over our State: post 
office dedications, stamp ceremonies, or town meetings to discuss new 
facilities.
  Everywhere we have gone together, it has been obvious how well-liked 
and respected Bob Opinsky is. He is an Alaskan's Alaskan, with a real 
can-do spirit.
  While working his way up the ladder at the Post Office, Bob put 
himself through college. He worked hard to become the best manager in 
the Postal Service, and he has succeeded.
  Many awards have come his way over four decades, but perhaps the 
recognition he most treasures is the Postmaster General Award for 
Executive Achievement, presented to him in 1991 by Postmaster General 
Tony Frank.
  Bob is married to a lifelong Alaskan, the former Edith Jordet--Edie 
to many of our friends. They have raised three great children, William, 
John, and Celine.

[[Page S6290]]

  Bob's Opinsky's kindness is legendary. His knowledge of the Postal 
Service is absolutely incredible. His gentleness has earned him the 
special respect of coworkers, neighbors, and friends. His unassuming 
demeanor masks a true competitor--a man who works to make sure that he 
and his people are at the top.
  Retirement may mean that Bob's golf game may get a little better, and 
that he and Edie may have a chance to seek some sunshine during the 
winter months.
  Best of all for me, Mr. President, Bob is my friend. Retirement won't 
change that.
  On behalf of all Alaskans, whose lives have been enriched through the 
great postal services Bob has ensured for them through the years, I 
commend Bob Opinsky for a job well done, and wish him well as he 
explores new horizons.
  I thank the Chair and yield back any time I might have.

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