[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 119 (Thursday, September 21, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1796]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        HONORING LYLE VAN HOUTEN

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. THADDEUS G. McCOTTER

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 21, 2006

  Mr. McCOTTER. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Lyle Van Houten, 
former mayor of Dearborn Heights, MI, and to mourn him upon his passing 
at age 77.
  For over seven decades, Lyle dedicated his life to public service and 
bettering the lives of others. As an integral member of the community, 
Lyle was first elected to the Dearborn Heights City Council in 1967, 
where he served until he was elected Mayor in 1986. Upon completion of 
his mayorship in 1993, he continued to strengthen the Michigan 
Republican Party, serving as Republican Committee chairman of the 16th 
and 15th congressional districts.
  Moreover, during his distinguished career, he was appointed to the 
Michigan Judges Retirement Board of Directors by past Governor John 
Engler, and also served as a member of the Dearborn Heights Kiwanis 
Club and the Divine Child Men's Club, among other community 
organizations. Throughout his years, Lyle established a legacy of 
benevolence, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the community.
  On September 7, 2006, after a 4-year battle with cancer, Lyle passed 
away. He will be remembered as a confident and patriotic American, who 
served his country with honor and dedication. To his wife, Mary; his 
children Julie Panetta and her husband Mark, L. Carter, Jr. and his 
wife Pamela, John, and Margaret; his grandchildren Ellen, Susan, and 
Nicolas; his sister Jean Linderman; and to everyone who knew and loved 
him, he was a noble statesman who will be sorely missed.
  Mr. Speaker, during his lifetime, Lyle Van Houten enriched the lives 
of everyone around him. As we bid farewell to this extraordinary 
individual, I ask my colleagues to join me in mourning his passing and 
honoring his legendary service to our community and country.

                          ____________________