[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 103 (Thursday, July 22, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1495]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   TRIBUTE TO GORDON AND MARY ELWELL

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. KEN CALVERT

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 22, 2004

  Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate a recent 
achievement of two people who, in celebrating their 50th year of 
marriage, have provided an inspiring example to all Americans. On June 
5, 1954 at Holy Family Church, South Buffalo, New York sweethearts 
Gordon Elwell married Mary Mattimore. With not much more at the 
beginning to call their own except their marriage, their faith and vast 
opportunities afforded by this great country, Gordon and Mary have come 
a long way in the 50 years of marriage.
  Gordon became a respected house builder in the Buffalo, New York 
area. Mary ran the household and tirelessly provided a loving and 
nurturing home environment for her husband and eight children. 
Throughout their incredible life together, Gordon and Mary have 
dedicated their lives to each other, their and children and 
grandchildren. To date they have been blessed with twelve grandchildren 
to spoil as only grandparents can.
  In a society with one of the highest divorce rates in the world, 
Gordon and Mary have provided their children and grandchildren with a 
shining example of a successful marriage. It is all about hard work, a 
sense of humor and yes, a love that will not quit. Gordon and Mary have 
been truly blessed by the first 50 years of this magical marriage, and 
here's hoping that the best is yet to come. On behalf of my colleagues, 
let me join the many friends and admirers in wishing Gordon and Mary, 
and their family, all good fortune during the next 50 years.

                          ____________________