[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 104 (Wednesday, July 14, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1317-E1318]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         HONORING ANGELO PLAKAS

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. THADDEUS G. McCOTTER

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 14, 2010

  Mr. McCOTTER. Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor the extraordinary 
life of Angelo Plakas and to mourn him upon his passing at the age of 
70.
  Born on August 2, 1939, Angelo Plakas dedicated his life to serving 
his community and his country. After graduating from the University of 
Detroit in 1960, Angelo taught elementary school before returning to 
school himself to pursue a law degree. He graduated

[[Page E1318]]

from Wayne State University in 1967 and began a long and storied 
relationship with several cities in the Metropolitan Detroit Area, most 
notably serving the city of Westland for more than 30 years.
  Angelo Plakas had represented the City of Westland since 1992 and was 
recognized as one of the most knowledgeable municipal attorneys in 
southeastern Michigan. During his tenure as City Attorney, Mr. Plakas 
served as an integral part of the economic development of the city with 
the purpose of making Westland a better place to live and work. Angelo 
donated much of his time and financial support to many civic 
organizations in Westland and encouraged others to be likewise 
involved. He was recognized as the Westland Chamber of Commerce 
Business Person of the Year in 2008. Angelo Plakas helped to form the 
following non-profit charitable entities: Westland Community 
Foundation, Westland Historical Society, Westland Rotary Charitable 
Foundation and S.P.A.R.K. (Sports, Parks and Recreation for Kids).
  Angelo Plakas loved his community and his community loved him. Always 
mindful of where he came from, Angelo never forgot where he'd been and 
always endeavored to better the world around him. As an alumnus of 
Detroit McKenzie High School, Mr. Plakas formed the ``Friends of 
McKenzie'' to help raise money needed to continue the athletic programs 
of his beloved alma mater.
  Regrettably, on July 13, 2010, Angelo Plakas passed from this earthly 
world to his eternal reward. He is survived by his beloved wife, 
Sandra, and his children, Jim and Elaina. Angelo's legacy will continue 
in the lives of his grandchildren Cameron, Braden, Drew, Emma and Jack. 
Mr. Plakas also leaves behind his brother Jim.
  Madam Speaker, Angelo will be long remembered as a compassionate 
father, a dedicated husband, community leader and friend. Angelo was a 
man who deeply treasured his family, friends, community and his 
country. Today, as we bid Angelo Plakas farewell, I ask my colleagues 
to join me in mourning his passing and honoring his unwavering 
patriotism and legendary service to our country and our community.

                          ____________________