[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 37 (Tuesday, April 5, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E552]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     TRIBUTE TO MR. EDWARD SWITZER

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JOE BACA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, April 5, 2005

  Mr. BACA. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I pay tribute 
today to the life of Mr. Edward Switzer. Mr. Switzer recently passed 
away, leaving a legacy of community work and commitment to those he 
loved. He was a magnanimous figure who was dedicated to his family and 
friends. It gives me no greater pleasure than honoring his memory 
today.
  The life of Mr. Switzer took him from Regent, North Dakota, where he 
was born and raised, to serving in the Air Force during World War II. 
He attended a one-room grade school and went on to earn his Master's 
degree from North Dakota State University. After completing his 
graduate education, Mr. Switzer settled in San Bernardino, where he 
became my early supporter for the San Bernardino Valley College Board 
of Trustees.
  To all those who knew Mr. Switzer, he exhibited generosity of spirit, 
love for his community, and dedication to his work. He constantly 
challenged the status quo, was never afraid to speak his mind, and 
undoubtedly left an immeasurable impression.
  Mr. Switzer turned to teaching chemistry at San Bernardino Valley 
College for almost forty years and was a dedicated professor, who 
demonstrated genuine concern for his students. He realized that many 
students were having difficulty understanding basic chemistry concepts 
that were being taught using advanced techniques. Mr. Switzer decided 
to create a more clear methodology for teaching chemistry by 
specializing in making the fundamentals of chemistry easier to 
understand. His passion for the subject that he taught and dedication 
for teaching led him to become Chair of the Department of Chemistry. In 
addition to being a remarkable professor, Mr. Switzer celebrated his 
retirement by serving his community board by setting up after-school 
programs for teenagers.
  I join today with family and friends in paying my respects to Mr. 
Switzer. He was a generous and humble human being who touched the lives 
of many and will be deeply missed by all. He has touched my life as a 
friend and mentor. His inspiration and encouragement have led me to 
hold office and be who I am today.

                          ____________________