[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 149 (Tuesday, November 16, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1935]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          REMEMBERING AND HONORING THE LIFE OF HENRY M. KELSEY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JOE COURTNEY

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, November 16, 2010

  Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise to 
mark the passing of a skilled educator, energetic community leader, and 
dear friend. Henry M. Kelsey of Old Saybrook died this past Saturday 
after a five month battle with cancer. He leaves behind a loving 
family, countless friends and students, and a void in the community 
that will be difficult to fill.
  Hank was born and raised in eastern Connecticut and lived there his 
entire life. He treasured his small town upbringing and told stories of 
exploring the streams and traveling the back roads around Clinton, 
where he grew up. I can tell you that Hank carried this curiosity and 
youthful optimism with him everywhere he went. How fortunate we are 
that his greatest and longest adventure was a 37 year teaching career--
one where his energy could educate and empower young people. He was a 
demanding teacher who both inspired and entertained his students in the 
classroom.
  Hank insisted on lending a hand to the bigger picture of education 
policy and became very active in education issues at the local, state, 
and federal levels. He held multiple degrees in the subject of 
education and worked to empower teachers at Gilead Hill and Hebron 
Elementary schools. Recently, the U.S. Department of Education named 
Hebron Elementary School a recipient of its coveted Blue Ribbon Award 
for high performance and student achievement. Hank would be so proud of 
this recognition which validated his many years of work and dedication.
  Hank was also a tremendous advocate for civic engagement. After 
moving to Bolton, he chaired the town's Democratic Town Committee as 
well as its Fire Commission. Between his work in education and his 
involvement in the community, he was a guy that really walked the walk. 
He will be deeply missed by his loving wife Lucia, his mother Doris, 
and his brother, Paul. Hank was married for many years to his first 
wife Rusty, also a teacher and activist who succumbed to cancer after a 
long, valiant battle. I too will miss Hank and am grateful for the 
opportunity to have known this remarkable person. I ask my colleagues 
to join me in mourning the loss and honoring the life of Henry M. 
Kelsey.