[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 102 (Friday, July 11, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1449]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                IN MEMORY OF ANTHONY J. CELEBREZZE, JR.

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 10, 2003

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and remembrance of 
Anthony J Celebrezze, Jr., devoted family man, accomplished public 
leader, and admired friend and mentor. Mr. Celebrezze's integrity, 
expertise and deep dedication to the people of Cleveland and the State 
of Ohio has left an indelible and positive mark within our community 
and throughout our state.
  Mr. Celebrezze was born and raised in Cleveland and chose to remain 
in Cleveland to raise his family throughout his years in office. In 
recent years, he relocated to the Columbus area where he pursued his 
passion of competitive racing. The life of Mr. Celebrezze reflects 
great accomplishment, focus and achievement--academic and professional. 
He earned a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering at the U.S. 
Naval Academy, a Master's degree from George Washington University, and 
a Law degree from Cleveland-Marshall Law School.
  Instilled with the values of public service from his father, Anthony 
J. Celebrezze, Sr., who served as a popular Mayor of Cleveland, Mr. 
Celebrezze sought a life in service to others. He was elected to the 
State Senate in 1976. In 1980, Mr. Celebrezze was elected to serve as 
Ohio's Secretary of State. Mr. Celebrezze was elected as Ohio's 
Attorney General two years later.
  Throughout his years dedicated to uplifting the lives of Ohio 
residents, Mr. Celebrezze made significant improvements regarding a 
wide range of environmental and consumer protection issues. Because of 
Mr. Celebrezze's commitment to Ohio consumers, auto buyers in Ohio are 
protected by the ``lemon law.'' A staunch protector and advocate of 
Ohio's natural environment, Mr. Celebrezze worked tirelessly for strict 
control of waste shipment into Ohio, and clamped down on industrial 
pollution.
  Anthony J. Celebrezze, Jr.'s steadfast integrity, kindness and humble 
nature reflected his character and defined his tenure as public 
servant. His humble nature belied his deep intellect, vision and keen 
political savvy. Though immensely successful, title and accolades did 
not hold significance for him--care for his family and service to 
community did. Anthony J. Celebrezze was a true leader in every sense--
a genuine individual whose modesty and strong sense of self cast a rare 
and steady beacon of light across the shadowy game of politics. He 
consistently disregarded political pressures and kept focused on 
improving the lives of his constituents, working tirelessly on behalf 
of his constituents.
  Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor, gratitude and 
remembrance of Mr. Anthony J. Celebrezze, Jr., an exceptional man and 
caring leader whose life profoundly impacted the lives of thousands. 
His passing marks a deep loss for countless who called him friend--
including me. Mr. Celebrezze's commitment to others is clearly 
evidenced within our consumer protection laws and cleaner environment, 
and will remain so for all time. His radiant legacy of consumer 
advocacy and environmental protection will be remembered always by the 
people of Ohio. Moreover, it was the power of his kindness, grace, 
tenacity and heart that uplifted and enlightened every facet of our 
community.
  I extend my deepest condolences to Mr. Celebrezze's beloved wife, 
Louisa; his beloved children, Anthony J. III, Charles, David, Catherine 
and Maria. Anthony J. Celebrezze, Jr.'s exceptional life will serve as 
a timeless example of leadership, and service to others--and although 
he will be deeply missed--his indelible legacy--fueled by the power of 
kindness, grace and heart, will forever resound throughout our 
community and throughout the State of Ohio.

                          ____________________