[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 27 (Friday, February 18, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E294]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       RECOGNIZING THE LIFE OF GWENDOLYN ``GWEN'' APPELQUIST MAY

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                            HON. JEFF MILLER

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, February 18, 2011

  Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the United States 
Congress, it is an honor for me to rise today to recognize the life of 
northwest Florida's beloved Gwen Appelquist May.
  Mrs. Appelquist was a pioneer in the local business community who 
used her success and acumen to help support numerous charities and 
service organizations in the Pensacola community. Mrs. Appelquist 
worked for nearly 40 years in the real estate business in northwest 
Florida. She formed her own company, Appelquist and Associates, in 
1977, and her tireless work ethic was the key to her success. She was 
noted for being the first one in the office, often beginning work at 
5:00 a.m., and the last to leave.
  Her leadership in the business community was unquestioned. She was 
highly respected and, in 1993, was chosen as chairwoman of the 
Pensacola Bay Area Chamber of Commerce. The Pensacola Bay Area Chamber 
of Commerce also awarded her with the Business Leader of the Year 
Award. She served in leadership positions at a number of local 
organizations, including co-chairwoman at Covenant Hospice and 
president of United Way of Escambia County. She also served as a board 
member for Baptist Hospital and the Council on Aging Foundation.
  Mrs. Appelquist was noted for her dedication to her clients; however, 
her commitment and hard work were best personified by her support for 
charitable organizations in the northwest Florida community. Retirement 
was never one of Mrs. Appelquist's goals. Following her career in real 
estate, Mrs. Appelquist joined the Studer Group, a health care 
consulting organization, where she worked as Executive Director of 
charitable giving.
  To some, Gwen Appelquist May will be remembered as a leader in the 
business community. To others, she will be remembered for her 
charitable work northwest Florida. To her family, she will always be 
remembered as a loving and devoted mother and spouse. She was an 
inspiration to those who knew her, and her service to the Pensacola 
community is her lasting legacy.
  Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it gives me 
great pride to honor the life of Gwen Appelquist May. My wife Vicki and 
I offer our continued prayers for her entire family.

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