[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 129 (Thursday, October 6, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2011]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      TRIBUTE TO JEFF CHRISTENSEN

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                        HON. MARILYN N. MUSGRAVE

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 6, 2005

  Mrs. MUSGRAVE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Mr. Jeff 
Christensen, a National Park Service Ranger who tragically lost his 
life July 29, 2005, while on a backcountry patrol in the Mummy Range 
area of the majestic Rocky Mountain National Park in Northern Colorado.
  Throughout his four seasons of service as a ranger with the National 
Park Service, Jeff was undoubtedly at home in the midst of some our 
country's most scenic and significant park land. I am very grateful for 
the dedication and enthusiasm Jeff displayed while serving our Nation 
in this capacity. He will be profoundly missed by all those whose lives 
he touched.
  Jeff once remarked to a friend, ``You know, if I ever die while at 
work in the mountains, do not cry for me because you will know that I 
died doing what I love.'' I pray that Jeff's family and friends will 
take solace in Jeff's passion for the job he so deeply loved.
  I extend my sincere gratitude for the hundreds of concerned citizens 
who joined in an exhaustive 8 day search for Jeff. The heroic efforts 
exhibited by members of the National Park Service and countless 
volunteers have not gone unnoticed.
  To Jeff's parents, Dale and Chris Christensen, and his many friends 
and family members, I express the heart-felt sympathies of a community 
that shares in their loss. May my colleagues join in celebrating the 
life and service of Mr. Jeff Christensen.

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