[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 98 (Tuesday, July 19, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1523]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 HONORING THE MEMORY OF ROSE F. PIERCE

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SUE W. KELLY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 19, 2005

  Mrs. KELLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with utmost appreciation and 
sincerest admiration to honor the inspirational life of Mrs. Rose F. 
Pierce of Poughkeepsie, New York. She is survived by her adoring niece, 
Shirley and her husband, Richard Panessa of Poughkeepsie; two sisters, 
Lena Lewis of Syracuse and Gaspar Peschel of Sarasota, FL; and several 
other nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews.
  After 88 years of a life complete with civic accomplishments, Mrs. 
Pierce's passing concludes a remarkable chapter of a life dedicated to 
volunteer service, while setting a commendable standard for all other 
leaders and volunteers to follow.
  Mrs. Pierce is remembered by all in the Poughkeepsie and Hudson 
Valley community as a compassionate, considerate and unwavering in her 
commitment to others. She overcame adversity in life with a unique 
energy and spirit. Her distinguishing enthusiasm and vigor was ever 
apparent when she would dress as Betsy Ross and make presentations 
about our flag in local school districts.
  Mrs. Pierce became known in the community for her commitment to those 
who made the greatest sacrifice by serving our country. She was a 
volunteer for many years at Castle Point VA Hospital in Dutchess County 
where she was recently received the United Way Points of Life award. 
She aided local veterans who where homebound, often driving them to the 
doctor or grocery shopping for them. Rose possessed an unwavering love 
for her country and humbly urged everyone to cherish and remember our 
veterans for the sacrifice they made to preserve our way of life.
  Besides her commitment to veterans, Mrs. Pierce's service to her 
community came via volunteering, civic activities, and selfless acts of 
benevolence. She was a past President of the VFW Post 170 Ladies 
Auxiliary in Poughkeepsie and a life member of the Ladies Auxiliary of 
the Italian Center. Some of her other civic activities included 
involvement in the Naval Fleet reserve, A.A.R.P., Dutchess Garden Club, 
Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, St. Rita's Society of Mount Carmel 
Church, and the Lions Club.

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