[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 21 (Wednesday, February 5, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E133]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          HONORING LEON BERMAN

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. PETER DEUTSCH

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 5, 2003

  Mr. DEUTSCH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Mr. Leon 
Berman, a loving husband and father, a devoted community leader, and a 
great Floridian. Born in Paris in 1910 to his Jewish parents who 
escaped Russia, the family soon left France for the United States.
  This difficult journey at so young an age marked the beginning of a 
remarkable life for Leon Berman, one that embodied service to the 
community and pride for his country. Berman will be best remembered for 
his unparalleled passion for life. Mr. Berman's daughter, Hollywood 
Mayor Mara Giulianti said, ``He never wanted to die. He loved life 
until the very last second.''
  A Hollywood resident since the mid-1970s, Berman along with his wife 
Bertha helped many important causes in South Florida, and Berman is 
responsible for mobilizing numerous in the community to become involved 
in local politics. Berman founded the Hills Democratic Club, and was a 
key member of the Broward County Democratic Executive Committee.
  As father to Mayor Mara Giulianti, Berman was her biggest supporter 
and most ardent campaigner, believing that his tireless work on the 
campaign trail could mean the difference between her election or 
defeat. As a highly regarded political activist in the area, Leon 
Berman was known to support and assist many Democratic and judicial 
candidates in South Florida.
  Mr. Speaker, it is indeed a great honor to stand here today and honor 
this individual. Berman's devotion to his wife Bertha of 67 years, his 
commitment to family, and his involvement in the local community truly 
serve as an example to us all.
  Mr. Berman is survived by his wife Bertha, his daughter Mara of 
Hollywood and daughter Arlene Berman of New York City. Mr. Berman also 
had two grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

                          ____________________