[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 80 (Tuesday, May 15, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1055]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                 HONORING THE LIFE OF ARNOLD SHENOFSKY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MARCY KAPTUR

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 15, 2007

  Ms. KAPTUR. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the life of Arnold 
Shenofsky of Toledo, Ohio. Arnie passed from this life at the age of 92 
on March 31, 2007, leaving a legacy of love and friendship to many and 
rejoining his wife Jessica.
  Coming to Toledo as a toddler, Arnie was a lifelong resident. He went 
to work at the former Willys Overland Jeep plant during World War II, 
and went on to the United Auto Workers International Union staff in 
1951. Of note, he never missed a union convention beginning in 1941.
  More than a labor leader, Arnie was an accomplished accordion player 
and performed in various events throughout the United States and 
Canada, including each of those UAW conventions. His music was 
appreciated, but children knew him best as Uncle Arnie the clown. He 
willingly gave of his talents as both accordionist and clown to all 
sorts of charitable causes, putting a smile on the face of everyone he 
met. A family man and friend of the neighborhood at heart, it is the 
measure of the man that all who knew him were fond of him.
  He was beloved by his family and thousands in our community. The 
festive mood set by his joyous music, tens of thousands of balloon 
animals lovingly given to children, endless gifts given to strangers 
and friends alike, demonstrated an extraordinarily kind heart that 
shone through his sparkling eyes and effervescent smile. His spirit 
lifted every occasion and he gave and gave and gave. Arnie Shenofsky 
helped define Toledo as a caring community. It was my privilege to know 
him and witness firsthand how his presence lent splendor to every 
event, large and small. Many times, he chose not to speak but to let 
you know what he was feeling through his music. How fortunate we have 
been that he shared his gifts of the heart with us for nine decades.
  Through the decades of his life Arnold Shenofsky sought to always be 
a helper, a healer, a friend to young and old alike. He was the same 
person with both notables and neighbors, and was truly beloved by his 
family. His sisters, brothers, and children and their families have 
mourned their loss even as they celebrate a life well lived. They carry 
his flame in their hearts, always.

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