[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 150 (Thursday, December 7, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2150]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      TRIBUTE TO LARS-ERIK NELSON

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. PETER T. KING

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, December 7, 2000

  Mr. KING. Mr. Speaker, together with so many Americans--particularly 
New Yorkers--I was deeply saddened by the tragic and untimely passing 
of Lars-Erik Nelson. Lars was a uniquely gifted journalist of 
unsurpassed integrity and courage.
  I will be eternally grateful that I was able to call Lars my friend--
for he was a friend in every sense of the word. Whether it was 
discussing the issues of the day, demonstrating concern for someone 
else's health problems or giving an encouraging word, Lars was always 
there.
  Although he had every right to do so, Lars never took himself 
seriously. Very simply, it was always a delight to be in his company. 
When my wife Rosemary was in Washington, she and I would enjoy getting 
together with Lars and his wife Mary for dinner. Lars was raconteur, 
gourmet and wine connoisseur. What better way could there be to spend 
an evening? Just several days before he died, Lars and I were trying to 
schedule dinner in the upcoming week. It was not meant to be.
  I will cherish personal memories of Lars. Sitting with him at my 
first Gridiron Dinner. Meeting with him and Gerry Adams in Washington 
during a key moment in the Irish Peace Process. Having lunch with him 
in the House Dining Room and listening to his calm reflections during 
the impeachment debate. His writing an overly complimentary blurb for a 
novel I wrote.
  But mostly I will remember a man who was a true giant as a journalist 
and a friend--a man of innate decency. A man who will be sorely missed 
by any who had the opportunity to know him.
  May he rest in peace.

                          ____________________