[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 73 (Monday, May 5, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E818]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     A CELEBRATION OF LIFE: RAYBURN ``RAY'' KNABE PASSES AT AGE 90

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JANE HARMAN

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, May 5, 2008

  Ms. HARMAN. Madam Speaker, death pulls hard at our heartstrings, 
whether it comes after a long, full life or one cut tragically short. 
Rayburn ``Ray'' Knabe lived a life mature in length and rich in 
contribution.
  Ray Knabe embodied the values and ambition of his generation, 
commonly referred to as the greatest in our Nation's history. His hard 
work, military service, and the large, loving family that survives him 
are testaments to a remarkable life.
  Born and raised in Mackinaw, Illinois, with his five siblings, Ray 
marriedLucille Hermann. The couple lived in Illinois, California, and 
finally Idaho, and produced three children--one of whom, Don, is a dear 
friend and Los Angeles County supervisor. The couple celebrated their 
67th anniversary in November.
  Ray served admirably in the United States Navy during World War II.
  Ray had a knack for precise craftsmanship, a skill he honed during 
his career which began at the J.I. Case Tractor Company in Illinois 
through his tenure at Western Gear Corporation in Southern California, 
where he ultimately retired. Ray was a registered professional 
engineer, mason, and member of the American Society of Manufacturing 
Engineers.
  In his later years, Ray finally decided to relax, and dedicated more 
time to golf, travel, and the occasional trip to the casino with 
Lucille. Sunday mornings in Idaho were spent at the Eagle Christian 
Church, where the pews now feel a little emptier.
  My heart goes out to Lucille, Don, and the rest of Ray's wonderful 
family.

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