[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 13 (Monday, February 14, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E133]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  HONORING JIM PATTI, A FRIEND TO ALL

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, February 14, 2000

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take a moment to pause and 
remember a man that will be greatly missed. Jim Patti touched many 
people's lives and was a friend to all. He passed away at the age of 49 
on January 26, 2000.
  Jim's record of friendship began as early as anyone can remember him. 
When he was in grade school, his best friend went to a different 
school. They were both very happy when they ended up in the same high 
school. Jim was very active on the decorating committee for all of the 
dances sponsored by the high school. Jim enjoyed drawing and he would 
design all the decorations.
  Working at the family restaurant, Patti's Restaurant, was always a 
part of Jim's life. He started working at the family-owned business by 
the time he was seven years old. He was a busboy and a story-teller. He 
loved people and he would always remember the stories to tell about 
them. He also met his wife, Judy, at the restaurant. Eventually Jim and 
Judy took over ownership of the restaurant and remodeled it several 
times. They also owned J. Patti Construction.
  Jim also loved sports, especially Colorado sports. From the 
University of Colorado Buffalos to the Denver Broncos, Jim was always 
ready to get together to watch the game. Having a good time was one of 
Jim's fortes. He enjoyed having his family and friends. Even though the 
family was large, there was always enough love to go around.
  It is with this, Mr. Speaker, that I offer this tribute to Jim Patti, 
the ``trunk of the family tree''. He was a great friend to all and 
loved life to the fullest.

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