[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 2 (Thursday, January 6, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E31]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        HONORING WILLIAM STAPKA

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. RAHM EMANUEL

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, January 6, 2005

  Mr. EMANUEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to extend my warmest 
congratulations to Mr. William Stapka of Chicago on the occasion of his 
75 birthday.
  Mr. Stapka has been an outstanding resident of the Norwood Park 
community for the past 45 years. Working at O'Hare for the City of 
Chicago's Aviation Department as well as in the precincts of Chicago, 
Mr. Stapka has been an ever present fixture of our community. His 
contributions to public service deserve our recognition and gratitude.
  Born in Poland, Mr. Stapka understands the struggles facing 
immigrants in America. Like those who achieved success through hard 
work and a determined spirit, Mr. Stapka provided a pleasant and 
prosperous life for his family. After 33 years of working for the City 
of Chicago, Mr. Stapka retired as a chief operating engineer at O'Hare 
Airport.
  Throughout his life, Mr. Stapka has demonstrated his firm commitment 
to public service, particularly through his contributions to Chicago's 
political system since 1960. He is an active member of Committeeman Tom 
Lyons and Alderman Pat Levar's 45th Ward Democratic Organization. He 
served as campaign treasurer for the beloved late Congressman Roman 
Pucinski, in his races for both the Chicago City Council and the U.S. 
House of Representatives. His loyalty to the Pucinski family continues 
to this day through his service as treasurer for Judge Aurelia 
Pucinski.
  Taking an active role in all aspects of his life, Mr. Stapka is also 
a member of the Immaculate Conception Church and serves as a member of 
the Holy Name Society within this parish. Still young at heart, Mr. 
Stapka also volunteers as a referee for local men's college soccer 
teams.
  Along with his late wife, Marcela, he raised three children: Susan, 
Andrew and Tom. Mr. Stapka is now the proud grandfather of three 
wonderful grandchildren: Nicole, Rebecca, and Randy.
  Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of the 75th birthday of William 
Stapka. He is a man who has stood tall in the face of great challenges 
and difficulties, built an impeccable reputation, and after 75 years, 
he still maintains a youthful spirit. On behalf of the people of the 
northwest side of Chicago, I thank Mr. Stapka for all he has given to 
those around him, and wish him continued happiness in the future.

                          ____________________