[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 12 (Wednesday, February 4, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E119]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         TRIBUTE TO RICHARD ROA

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JOE BACA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 4, 2004

  Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I pay tribute 
today to the life of Richard Roa. Richard recently passed away, leaving 
a legacy of community work and commitment to those he loved. He was a 
magnanimous figure who was dedicated to his family, his friends, and 
his roots. It gives me no greater pleasure than honoring his memory 
today.
  To all those who knew Richard, he exhibited generosity of spirit, 
love for his fellow man, and dedication to his work. He constantly 
challenged the status quo and was never afraid to speak his mind, 
undoubtedly leaving an immeasurable impression on his community.
  The life of Richard Roa took him from Riverside, California, where he 
was born and raised, to Japan and Korea, where he was assigned to 
active duty as corporal for the 40th Infantry Division.
  After completing his military service, Richard turned to business, 
working for Helgeson Buick, before moving on to community work. He was 
soon named Community Relations Coordinator for the City of Riverside 
and became the first president of the Casa Blanca Community Action 
Group (CAG), helping to redress the problems of an area that needed his 
caring touch. At Casa Blanca, Richard found himself fighting for 
improved housing, increased business development, and the creation of 
important neighborhood public services. He always advocated for those 
in need and was beloved by those around him.
  I join today with family and friends in paying my respects to Richard 
Roa. He was a generous and gentle man who fought the good fight and 
will be deeply missed by all.

                          ____________________