[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 76 (Monday, May 18, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1183-E1184]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO WESLEY SAVAGE

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. IKE SKELTON

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, May 18, 2009

  Mr. SKELTON. Madam Speaker, each May, I hold a small business 
procurement conference at the University of Central Missouri in 
Warrensburg, Missouri. Through the years, many individuals have 
contributed to the success of this event, which helps entrepreneurs and 
small business owners to cut through bureaucratic red tape associated 
with the procurement process and to make business connections.
  One individual who was particularly helpful in gluing together my 
annual conference was Wes Savage, a good friend and expert in 
entrepreneurial studies and business development. Wes passed away 
rather unexpectedly last July, so the 2009 conference will be the first 
one without him.
  As I prepare for this year's event, let me take a moment to reflect 
on the life of a truly outstanding figure at the University of Central 
Missouri, a good family man, and a friend to so many people.
  Wes was born on May 25, 1937, in Decatur, Illinois. He received a 
bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering & industrial engineering 
from the University of Missouri--Rolla and a master's degree in 
production management & human resource management from Butler 
University. He also completed continuing education courses in 
psychology, banking, and basic programming.
  Wes enjoyed working and became an expert while being employed in a 
wide range of industries and organizations. He was a Registered 
Professional Engineer in the state of Missouri and gave time to the 
Engineers Club of Kansas City. He was affiliated with the Missouri 
Board of Architects, the Engineers and Land Surveyors, and the National 
Development Council.
  In 1987, Wes began working at the University of Central Missouri as 
the Consulting Engineer for the Small Business Development Center 
(SBDC) and became coordinator for the SBDC in 1990. Wes served as the 
Center's director until he became Director of the Institute for 
Entrepreneurial Studies and Development at the University.
  In his role at the University, Wes assisted and advised numerous 
Missouri business owners and entrepreneurs. He gave sound advice to 
help Missourians begin or improve business operations, which in turn, 
helped to create jobs and boost economic productivity in the Show-Me 
State. I have heard from many individuals through the years who have 
expressed gratitude for working with the SBDC because of the Center's 
positive impact on business.
  Wes also cared deeply about teaching university students about 
entrepreneurship and the unique opportunities and business tools 
available to people in this country. This is why he was particularly 
thrilled when the University created the Institute for Entrepreneurial 
Studies and Development and why he helped create an online course and 
co-taught with staff the first entrepreneurial course at the 
University.
  Wes Savage applied the things he learned in education and in life to 
his professional career. He was an experienced manager who motivated 
those around him with his strong work ethic and his relaxed, friendly 
demeanor.
  I know Members of the House will join me in expressing gratitude for 
Wes's life and for extending best wishes to his wife, Jane; his sons 
and their wives, Craig and Deana Savage, Scott and Gina Savage, and 
Grant and Erika Savage; his six grandchildren; and all of his friends 
and colleagues.

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