[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 79 (Wednesday, June 15, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1243]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      IN HONOR OF MR. VICTOR GHIO

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. SAM FARR

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 15, 2005

  Mr. FARR. I rise today to honor the life of Victor Ghio, an 
influential member of the Santa Cruz community. He passed away on March 
31, 2005 at age 88 and is survived by his brother, Johnnie M. Ghio; his 
sisters, Victoria Gemignani, Mary Marsalisi, and Gloria Della Mora; and 
numerous nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews. Mr. Ghio is 
most notable as a local legend and a vital link to the city's storied 
Italian fishing colony.
  Mr. Ghio was born on August 20, 1916 in Santa Cruz, California. 
Following the footsteps of his grandfather and father, Mr. Ohio learned 
to fish around the age of 8. Shortly after graduating from high school, 
he went into the family business. However, when World War II broke out, 
he enlisted, and spent a decade in the service. Mr. Ghio earned the 
prestigious award of a Purple Heart for his assistance in the war 
effort.
  Mr. Ghio spent more than 60 seasons fishing the Monterey Bay area on 
his 30-foot boat, Catherina G., named after his beloved mother. Just 
shortly before his death, Mr. Ghio was still buying fishing equipment 
to get ready for the season's commercial salmon season. The ocean was 
evidently his world in which he could live as a free spirit, away from 
the bustle of the city.
  Mr. Speaker, I am joined by Mr. Ghio's family and friends in honoring 
his life and contributions to the community. He will be remembered by 
his positive spirit and a wonderful outlook on life. Mr. Ghio's service 
will be truly missed.




                          ____________________