[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 82 (Monday, May 19, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E961]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           HONORING THE LIFE AND MEMORY OF MR. JERRY TRUMPKA

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. THADDEUS G. McCOTTER

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, May 19, 2008

  Mr. McCOTTER. Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor Jerry Trumpka, a 
treasured community leader, and mourn him upon his passing at age 57.
  Jerry Trumpka was a founding member and president of the Plymouth 
A.M. Rotary Club. Jerry contracted polio at the age of nine. Mr. 
Trumpka used his struggle with the disease as an inspiration to assist 
his local community, our Nation, and worldwide efforts to provide 
comfort to families and victims of polio and help eliminate the 
disease. The Rotary Club, which is an international organization, has 
made its main focus since 1985 to eradicate polio worldwide. Jerry was 
honored to become President of the Club in 2003. Mr. Trumpka was 
instrumental to the development of the Sandra Sagear award, named after 
a local high school student who overcame the challenges of living with 
polio. Mr. Trumpka helped to initiate the award and $500 scholarships 
in Sagear's name and assisted in the construction of a memory wall 
honoring the recipients of the award. Jerry was known as a quiet giver 
both through his leadership in the Rotary Club and in his position as 
the operations associate at the Plymouth Community United Way office. 
Mr. Trumpka was also known for his involvement in the political 
community as a Republican activist.
  Tragically, Jerry passed away from a heart attack. Jerry will be 
cherished as a devoted husband and father. To his wife, Becky; his 
daughter; Toni; and to everyone who knew and loved him, Jerry was a 
dedicated member of his community who will be truly missed.
  Madam Speaker, during his lifetime, Mr. Jerry Trumpka enriched the 
lives of everyone around him by exhibiting vigor, leadership, and 
spirit. As we bid farewell to this outstanding individual, I ask my 
colleagues to join me in mourning his passing and honoring his many 
years of loyal service to the community and our country.

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