[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 56 (Thursday, April 2, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E856]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      IN HONOR OF DALE SKILLICORN

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. SAM FARR

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 2, 2009

  Mr. FARR. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of Dale 
Skillicorn of Watsonville, California. Dale passed away on March 14, 
2009 at the age of seventy-one, leaving behind a city better for his 
efforts. He was an extraordinary community leader who served as the 
city of Watsonville's Mayor Pro Tempore and had served as a city 
councilmember, representing the city's 7th District, since 2002.
  Dale was born on April 4, 1937 in Watsonville, California. He 
graduated from Watsonville High School then attended Monterey Peninsula 
College and San Francisco State University. Dale spent more than twenty 
years in public service positions. He served on the Santa Cruz County 
Planning Commission for fourteen years, and then spent five years as 
Santa Cruz County Parks Commissioner. In 2002, Dale was elected to 
represent Watsonville's District 7 on the city council. He was 
reelected in 2006 and in 2008 was selected as the Mayor Pro Tempore by 
his peers on the city council. Dale brought a wealth of knowledge and a 
unique perspective to the city council.
  Dale Skillicorn's public service career will be remembered for his 
dedication to green job creation and advocacy for the Pajaro Valley's 
agriculture industry. He played a key role in bringing the Alternative 
Construction and Energy Expo to the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds. In 
addition, many residents in Watsonville will remember Dale through his 
work as a volunteer in many organizations located in the Pajaro Valley.
  Madam Speaker, Dale Skillicorn touched the hearts of everyone he came 
into contact with, was a pillar to the city of Watsonville. He lived 
his life as an active member of the community, who was driven by 
compassion to help others. I am certain I speak for the entire House in 
extending our heartfelt sympathy to Dale's wife of 29 years, Jan 
Skillicorn; his son, Mark Skillicorn; and his two stepdaughters, 
Valerie Justus-Rusconi and Christina Justus-Garcia.

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