[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 150 (Thursday, December 7, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2140]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING RICHARD C. JOLLEY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, December 7, 2000

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great sadness that I wish to 
take this moment to recognize the remarkable life and significant 
achievements of a life-long New Castle resident and sheep rancher, 
Richard C. Jolley. Sadly, Dick lost his battle with cancer on November 
19, 2000. While his family, friends and community remember the truly 
exceptional life of Dick, I, too, would like to pay tribute to this 
remarkable man and close personal friend.
  Dick was a beloved native of New Castle, where his contributions to 
the community were many. A dedicated leader of his community, he was 
elected as a Garfield County Commissioner in 1976, serving during the 
oil shale boom in Western Colorado. His pragmatism assisted him in 
finding tough but fair solutions during negotiations with the oil 
companies, all the while working to see local interests were protected. 
He also tackled problems in the district attorney's office and worked 
through a proposal to build a local ski area. His term in elected 
office was marked by his honest, trustworthy nature and his ability to 
boil things down to the bottom line.
  His life was one of distinction both professionally and in the realm 
of public service. After serving as a county commissioner, Dick was a 
leading force in founding the Regional Bank of Rifle, which was 
recently acquired by Wells Fargo. Dick had a keen business sense that 
was on full display during his time at the Regional Bank of Rifle.
  Known for his sharp wit, a hallmark of Dick's personality was his 
ability to transfix an audience with his stories. Sporting a grin from 
ear to ear, he narrated knee-slapping tales that are nothing short of 
legendary.
  Although his professional accomplishments will long be remembered and 
admired, most who knew him well will remember Dick Jolley, above all 
else, as a loving husband for 48 years, a devoted father of two sons 
and a proud grandfather of four grandchildren. At the end of his life, 
his grandchildren brought him endless joy.
  Mr. Speaker, with Dick's passing, western Colorado has lost a great 
man and friend. However, Mr. Speaker, I am confident that, in spite of 
this profound loss, the family and friends of Dick Jolley can take 
solace in the knowledge that each is a better person for having known 
him. I know that I am.
  It is with this that I pay tribute to the life of a man who 
exemplified the extraordinary characteristics of strength, dignity and 
sincerity. We will all miss him greatly.

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