[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 17 (Tuesday, February 26, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E209]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    PAYING TRIBUTE TO TOM G. ROBERTS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 26, 2002

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a solemn heart that I take this 
opportunity to pay respect to the passing of Tom G. Roberts, who 
recently passed away at the age of 55. Tom was a pillar of the 
Hotchkiss, CO, community and as his family mourns his loss, I think it 
is appropriate to remember Tom and pay tribute to him for his 
contributions to his community.
  Tom was a shining example of a man thoroughly involved in his 
community. He was a member of the Hotchkiss Community United Methodist 
Church, the Hotchkiss Elks Lodge No. 1807, the Mt. Lamborn Masonic 
Lodge No. 102, and Sigma Phi Epsilon. In an effort to serve his 
community, Tom participated in several civic and business groups, 
notably the Hotchkiss Library Board, the Hotchkiss Chamber of Commerce, 
and the Delta County Livestock Association. Tom was a member of the 
North Fork Snowmobilers Association and was also a member of the Men's 
League and Mixed League at Valley Lanes, where he spent his free time 
playing one of his favorite games, bowling.
  Tom was well known for his love of outdoor activities, including 
horseback riding and snowmobiling. As a result of his intimate 
knowledge of the local forest and his attention to the news, he was 
often referred to as the ``unofficial wildfire reporter''. Between his 
responsibilities as owner of Robert's Short Stop, Tom always loved to 
visit with residents and tourists visiting the area. Tom loved 
children, especially his own, and was often seen at the local little 
league games as a fan and a sponsor. Tom will be remembered as a loving 
husband, a devoted father, and a friend to all.
  Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to pay tribute to Tom G. Roberts for 
his contributions to the Hotchkiss community. His dedication to his 
family, friends, work, and community certainly deserves the recognition 
of this body of Congress. Although Tom has left us, his good-natured 
spirit lives on through the lives of those he touched. I would like to 
extend my thoughts and deepest sympathies to Tom's family and friends 
during this difficult time.

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