[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 20 (Tuesday, February 24, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E216]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     TRIBUTE TO MAYOR JOHN BENNETT

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 24, 2004

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise to pay 
tribute to the life and memory of former Grand Junction Mayor John 
Bennett, who after a long battle with an illness, passed away at the 
age of sixty-six. John was a true American patriot, and a beloved 
friend and colleague to many in his Colorado community. In his years 
spent in public service, John embodied the ideals of integrity and 
courage that we, as Americans, have come to expect. As his family and 
community mourn his passing, I believe it is appropriate to recognize 
the life of this exceptional man, and his many contributions to his 
community, state and country.
  Mayor Bennett lived an immensely rich and full life, always holding 
firm to his beliefs in serving his community and country. He spent over 
twenty years defending this Nation, serving in the Air Force and the 
Army, where he earned a reputation as a solid and dependable leader. 
After his retirement, John continued to feel a call to service and 
dedicated his efforts toward improving the lives of his Grand Junction 
community. He served as a member of the Grand Junction City Council, 
and was elected mayor in 1988, where he was known for his judiciousness 
and problem-solving skills.
  Mr. Speaker, we are all at a great loss because of Mayor Bennett's 
passing, but can be comforted in knowing he helped make Grand Junction 
a better place for future generations. I would like to extend my 
heartfelt sorrow to his wife of over twenty years, Barbara, and his 
loving children, Tammy, Vicki, and William. Mayor Bennett's selfless 
dedication to Grand Junction, the State of Colorado, and the United 
States has helped ensure a promising future for our great country and I 
am deeply honored to bring his life to the attention of this body of 
Congress. I am proud to have known such a great man who enriched the 
lives of his family, community, and Nation.

                          ____________________