[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 55 (Tuesday, April 27, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E659]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     PAYING TRIBUTE TO ALEX MADONNA

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. LOIS CAPPS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 27, 2004

  Mrs. CAPPS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to pay tribute to Alex Madonna 
of San Luis Obispo, California, in my district. Alex died on April 22, 
leaving a hole in the heart of his wife of 55 years, Phyllis, and in 
those of his large and devoted family. He will truly be missed by the 
people of San Luis Obispo County, and throughout the Nation.
  Alex Madonna was a second generation American whose grandparents 
emigrated from Switzerland. A self-made man who was guided by a strong 
work ethic, Alex made his mark building and paving highways throughout 
the state and in numerous building projects. During World War II, Alex 
used his construction skills as a soldier in the Army Corps of 
Engineers. A champion of the agricultural community, Alex was also 
known as ``the host from the coast'' at the Madonna Inn, a landmark in 
San Luis Obispo.
  In addition to his numerous business accomplishments, Alex Madonna 
was also a philanthropist of legendary proportions. Alex Madonna's 
generosity to the people and the organizations of San Luis Obispo is 
part of history. Nearly everyone in town has a story about a donation 
that Alex and Phyllis have made to our community.
  San Luis Obispo will be wearing pink on Thursday, the day of Alex 
Madonna's funeral. The church will be packed with people wanting to say 
goodbye to a man whose life can be summed up in these words: 
determination, hard work and a great heart.

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