[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 21 (Wednesday, February 25, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E230]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           OBSERVING THE PASSING OF AMERICA'S ``OLDEST MAN''

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. STENY H. HOYER

                              of maryland

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 25, 2004

  Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, today Maryland mourns the loss of William 
Coates, thought to be the oldest man in America and certainly someone 
who made a lifetime of contributions to our state.
  Mr. Coates was born in Maryland on June 2, 1889 and lived to see many 
of our nation's most important moments, including the Wright Brothers' 
first flight, the Great Depression, two World Wars, the Civil Rights 
movement and the Space age.
  Over the span of his life in our great state, Mr. Coates worked with 
the Maryland State Highway Department in the 1930s building roads for 
the state, and as a tobacco farmer on a variety of farms throughout 
Prince George's County including Claggett Farm in Upper Marlboro.
  Mr. Coates leaves behind him a caring family of nine children, 21 
grandchildren and 37 great-grandchildren, many of whom still live in 
Prince George's County. His life, like the times he lived through, will 
long be fondly remembered by his family and friends and those of us who 
marveled at his longevity.
  William Coates' extended and healthy life is also a tribute to a 
dedicated investment in medical research. Mr. Coates' life shows us 
that by investing in research, we can all improve our lives and our 
health.
  William Coates has dedicated a life of service to our state and 
community, and my thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.

                          ____________________