[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 100 (Wednesday, July 9, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1435]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[[Page E1435]]
                  A TRIBUTE TO ALEX CANJA OF FLINT, MI

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. NICK SMITH

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 9, 2003

  Mr. SMITH of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a 
friend and great American.
  In a rich life span of 81 years, Alex Canja mentored thousands of 
young men and women and then, in later life, became an advocate for 
older citizens.
  On his own, without parents, from the age of 11, Alex raised himself, 
living at the YMCA in Flint, MI and selling newspapers.
  Ever the optimist, determined to succeed, he believed that with hard 
work and honest effort, his dreams could come true. And they did.
  At Flint Central High School, he was elected president of the student 
body. He served in the US Army Air Force returning to the University of 
Michigan after the war. He became an All-American diver, was captain of 
the U of M swimming team, and earned a Master's Degree in Education. It 
was there that he met and courted Esther Giovannone, also known as 
``Tess.'' She became his wife and inseparable companion for 56 years.
  He served his community. A teacher, deputy superintendent, and camp 
director, Alex coached swimming, taught English, and with his wife 
Tess, built the fledgling summer camp ``Camp Flying Eagle'' into one of 
the finest in Michigan. His goal was to provide young boys and men the 
many opportunities for personal growth and success he knew they needed.
  Alex worked for many years with AARP on behalf of the senior citizens 
of the United States. He served alongside his wife, Tess Canja, who 
became the National president of AARP. He brought his wit and wisdom to 
meetings of the spouses and companions of AARP board members, melding 
them into a support group for themselves and the Board.
  He was very proud of Tess and her accomplishments, but also of his 
daughter, Debbie, son, Jeff, and grandsons, Brian and Scott. Another 
son, Paul, preceded him in death.
  For Tess and Alex Canja, their immortality will be in their 
contribution to their community, their state, and their nation.

                          ____________________