[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 56 (Tuesday, April 20, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E591-E592]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING THE LEGACY OF JOSE MANUEL CASANOVA

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. ILEANA ROS-LEHTINEN

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 20, 2010

  Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Madam Speaker, recently, a greatly respected Cuban-
American presidential appointee, community leader, and beloved husband 
and father, passed away. Jose Manuel Casanova, a true inspiration to 
all Americans, dedicated his life's work to serving our Nation.
  A presidential appointee of Ronald Reagan, he served as the Executive 
Director of the Inter-American Development Bank. Through the Inter-
American Development Bank Jose helped contribute to economic 
development in Latin America, promoting free market policies.
  During his tenure at the Inter-American Development Bank, Jose was 
appointed by Secretary of the Treasury James A. Baker III to serve as 
U.S. Executive Director for the Inter-American Investment Corporation. 
There he worked to develop private enterprises in Latin America, 
providing expertise he gained through years of experience in banking 
and commerce.
  Born in Cuba in 1930, Jose fled his homeland due to the despotic 
regime of Fidel Castro. Jose devoted his energies and talents to

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providing a better life for his family and contributing to his adopted 
country that had given his family refuge from tyranny. Jose also 
dedicated his time to fundraising for important causes, including the 
United Way, the Cuban Refugee Fund, and Club de las Americas.
  Although he was proud of his public and civic service, what meant the 
most to Jose was his dearly loved family.
  Jose is survived by his wife of 50 years Alicia, seven children, 
seven grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and his sister. He was 
a dedicated husband and father and a wonderful role-model for his 
family.
  Jose's father was a great source of inspiration for him as he also 
worked in public service.
  Those who knew Jose know that we mourn the passing of a committed 
leader, loyal friend, and a true pioneer for the Cuban-American 
community. Jose's story is a uniquely American story.

                          ____________________