[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 132 (Friday, September 7, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1838]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




EXPRESSING THE CONDOLENCES OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ON THE DEATH 
OF THE HONORABLE PAUL E. GILLMOR, A REPRESENTATIVE OF THE STATE OF OHIO

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                         HON. VERNON J. EHLERS

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, September 5, 2007

  Mr. EHLERS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to my good 
friend, Representative Paul Gillmor. I learned of his sudden passing on 
Wednesday, and my wife and I are greatly saddened by this news. I offer 
my prayers of support to his wife Karen and their two daughters, Linda 
and Julie and their three sons, Paul Michael and twins Connor and Adam.
  I take great pride in knowing such an honorable gentleman who humbly 
served his country and constituents. Paul began his life of public 
service as a Judge Advocate in the Air Force during the Vietnam 
Conflict from 1965-1966. He continued his service as a State Senator 
for twenty-two years and was President of the Ohio Senate for three 
General Assemblies. Ever since he was first elected to Congress in 
1988, he has honorably represented his constituents in the most ethical 
manner. He was reelected to each subsequent Congress by substantial 
margins, indicating the trust and confidence his constituents placed in 
him. He served them well and diligently.
  Representative Gillmor and I were both long-time congressional 
representatives to the NATO Parliamentary Assembly. Paul was 
particularly active in this organization and served several years as 
Chair of the important Economic Committee, and most recently has been 
serving as the Vice Chair of the entire Assembly. In all Assembly 
activities, Representative Gillmor conscientiously and honorably 
represented the interests of the United States.
  Above all, Paul was a good friend, confidante, and advisor to me. He 
was a fountain of wisdom and sage advice, and I deeply appreciated his 
friendship and that of his wife Karen. My wife and I both enjoyed their 
company as we traveled together to NATO meetings to represent the U.S. 
Karen and Paul were particularly proud of their children, and often 
told us about their development and prowess.
  We will all miss Paul, and express our condolences to Karen and the 
children. He made an important mark on the history of our Nation and 
the world. Our country is the better for his participation in the 
Congress and the NATO Parliamentary Assembly.
  May God bless Karen, the children and all Paul's relatives, and give 
them comfort and strength during this time of sorrow.

                          ____________________