[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 9 (Wednesday, January 17, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E131]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         MOURNING THE PASSING OF PRESIDENT GERALD RUDOLPH FORD

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                            HON. FRED UPTON

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, January 9, 2007

  Mr. UPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the passing of 
a great President and American, President Gerald R. Ford.
  As I reflect upon the distinguished life and legacy of President 
Ford, the first things that come to mind are his honesty, integrity, 
and ability to make the tough decisions for a nation that was fiercely 
divided by war and recovering from a scandal at the highest level of 
government. He served with the best interest of America in mind, never 
losing sight of his faith, family, and his beloved roots in southwest 
Michigan.
  President Ford was truly a Michigan original, and folks throughout 
our State saw an ordinary man become extraordinary; yet, he always 
remained our native son. His upbringing in Michigan molded the man that 
Gerry Ford became--growing up in an environment that encouraged him to 
pursue his vision of what America should and could be.
  I have the great honor and privilege of representing some of the very 
same folks in southwest Michigan that President Ford did during his 
time in Congress.
  All our hearts go out to Betty and the Ford children: Mike, Jack, 
Steve, and Susan during this difficult time.
  His legacy continues to grow particularly as we see first hand the 
partisan divisions which divide our country and this Congress. 
President Ford was one that always put his country first and his party 
second.
  President Ford was a remarkable man and an outstanding representative 
of the Wolverine State. Our Nation was blessed to have such a 
compassionate and steadfast leader and he will forever remain in our 
memory.
  Farewell to our President. Go Blue.

                          ____________________