[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 34 (Wednesday, March 17, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E401]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   PAYING TRIBUTE TO MAYOR VAN WILLIS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 17, 2004

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great sadness that I rise today 
to pay tribute to the life and memory of Mancos, Colorado, Mayor Van 
Willis who passed away recently at the age of eighty-seven. Van was a 
true American patriot, and a beloved friend and colleague to many in 
his Colorado community. In his years spent in public service, Van 
embodied the ideals of integrity and courage that we, as Americans, 
have come to expect from our public servants. 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.
  Van lived an immensely rich and full life, always holding firm to his 
beliefs in serving his community and country. He spent ten years 
serving his nation in the Army, earning a reputation as a solid and 
dependable leader. After moving to Bayfield in 1947, he embraced the 
pioneering spirit of Colorado, running a ranch there, and later in 
Mancos. Van dedicated his efforts towards the betterment of his Mancos 
community, spending twelve years as the mayor of Mancos, serving on the 
board of the Chamber of Commerce, and serving as president of the 
Mancos Community Development. He also held a post command in the 
Veterans of Foreign Wars, and was a member of the American Legion.
  Mr. Speaker, we are all at a great loss because of Mayor Willis' 
passing, but can be comforted in knowing he helped make Mancos a better 
place for future generations. I would like to extend my heartfelt 
sorrow to his sister Margaret, his children, Linda and Dean; his 
grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Mayor Willis' selfless 
dedication to Mancos, 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 and 
this nation. I am proud to have known such a great man who enriched the 
lives of his family, community and nation.

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