[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 68 (Thursday, May 17, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E831]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  TRIBUTE TO THE LATE FRANCISCA GARMON

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JOE BACA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 16, 2001

  Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, it is with great sadness that I rise in memory 
of Francisca Garmon, of my district, who passed away on Mother's Day, 
May 13, 2001.
  Francisca served as vice president of the local union, United 
Steelworkers of America Local 7600, which represents approximately 
4,000 Kaiser Permanente Medical Center Employees in San Bernardino and 
Riverside counties. A woman of great faith, Francisca was known for her 
resilience and tenacity. A gifted communicator, she was asked by the 
union to serve as a spokeswoman because of her speaking abilities. A 
talented singer, she made a recording last year at the request of the 
Steelworkers International.
  Francisca is survived by her husband, James Garmon, a physician's 
assistant at Kaiser Permanente's San Bernardino Clinic. She is also 
survived by her mother Virginia; Children Johnny, Troy and Anna (Sey), 
who is a customer service representative at Kaiser's Corona Call 
Center; grandchildren Dana, Kaleb and Jacob; brother, Richard; sisters 
Evelyn, Jeannie and Rosie; and many other relatives.
  Francisca had worked for Kaiser Permanente for 18 years. Prior to 
becoming a grievance officer she served as an assistant grievance 
officer. In the year 2000, Fran became vice president of USWA Local 
7600. She served as co-chair of the Legislative and Education 
Committee, was active in the Labor Management Partnership and was a 
political activist for State and Federal labor laws.
  Francisca's presence, along with her efforts and hard work, will be 
missed tremendously by all her Brothers and Sisters of Local 7600, and 
indeed, all in our community, but our comforting memories of her will 
live on.
  Francisca also served her country in the armed forces, in the Air 
Force from April 4, 1970, through September 11, 1970, being honorably 
discharged due to pregnancy; and also in the Army for two years, being 
honorably discharged on April 17, 1979.
  Francisca made a lasting difference in her community. Our hearts go 
out to her family and loved ones. With God's grace we know she will 
have peace.

                          ____________________