[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 176 (Tuesday, December 9, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2509-E2510]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    PAYING TRIBUTE TO EARL VANTASSEL

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, December 8, 2003

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before you with a heavy heart to pay 
tribute to a remarkable man from my district. Earl VanTassel of Craig, 
Colorado passed away recently at the age of 85. Earl contributed a 
great deal to the Craig community, and it is my honor today to rise and 
pay tribute to his life before this body of Congress and our nation.
  Earl was born in Craig in 1918. He attended Craig High School, where 
he graduated in 1937. In 1943, Earl married Florence Prather, his wife 
of sixty years. Earl and Florence raised four wonderful children 
together.
  Earl was an excellent and knowledgeable rancher who used his 
expertise for the betterment of his community. He was a mentor and 
leader for 4-H participants, and in that capacity, he passed along his 
knowledge of livestock and ranching to young people throughout the 
region. Earl was also a dedicated volunteer at the Moffat County Fair, 
numerous livestock sales, and local rodeos. He delighted in helping 
with the Craig Sale Barn for many years. In addition, Earl was an 
active member of the Colorado Cattlemen's Association, the Young 
Farmers Association and the 4-H Foundation.
  Earl's contributions to his community went well beyond ranching. As a 
member of Colorado's first Conservation Board, Earl worked tirelessly 
on behalf of the environment. In addition, Earl served over forty years 
as a member of Craig's Rural Fire Protection District

[[Page E2510]]

Board. He was also an active member of the Elks Club, and a volunteer 
with the Sheriff's Posse as well. Craig is definitely a better place as 
the result of Earl's many contributions.
  Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to rise and pay tribute to Earl 
VanTassel. Earl spent a great deal of his life working for the 
betterment of his community and our State. Above all, Earl was a 
wonderful father, husband and a friend to many. My heart goes out to 
Earl's loved ones during this difficult time of bereavement.

                          ____________________