[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 137 (Thursday, September 15, 2011)]
[Senate]
[Pages S5679-S5680]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       TRIBUTE TO WOLFGANG MATTES

  Mr. LEVIN. Mr. President, today, I honor a son of Michigan, Mr. 
Wolfgang ``Wolf'' Mattes, a loving husband, dedicated father, caring 
friend, and stalwart patriot. Mr. Mattes will celebrate his 80th 
birthday on Sunday, September 18.
  Mr. Mattes is a dedicated public servant who has selflessly served 
his country, State and community in various capacities for nearly six 
decades. Known as an honest, warm, and generous man, Mr. Mattes chose a 
career as a public servant and worked for the city of Detroit for many 
years, where he retired as the supervising naturalist at the Belle Isle 
Nature Center. Wolf is a wildlife conservationist at heart and spent 
countless hours rehabilitating wild animals and protecting their 
habitat. Additionally, when his country called, he did not hesitate to 
respond and proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Korean war.

[[Page S5680]]

  An avid sports fan and athlete, Wolf worked as an usher at Tiger and 
Olympia Stadiums. At Olympia Stadium, he was the guard for the Red 
Wing's locker room and bench and was known as ``Wolfie on the bench'' 
by the players. After Olympia Stadium closed, the Detroit Red Wings 
brought him with them to Joe Louis Arena, where he worked in the press 
box.
  Mr. Mattes understands the value and importance of community service, 
and his many efforts have been fittingly honored through his selection 
as a volunteer and firefighter of the year, Kiwanis volunteer of the 
year, and Elk volunteer of the year.
  On Sunday, we will all look back and see the hallmarks of a life well 
lived. He is beloved not for a litany of accomplishments, but simply 
for who he is. Beneath a humble exterior lies a generous and kind soul. 
His quiet determination, unfailing kindness, and unyielding spirit have 
made him a pillar not only of a proud and loving family, but of all who 
have come to know him.
  He remains the dedicated husband to his lovely bride Barb, whom he 
met at Michigan State on a blind date over 52 years ago, and he has 
been a wonderful father to his adoring daughters Erika Lynn Mattes 
Rebbe, Heidi Leigh Mattes Mason, Brigitte Beth Mattes Cooper, and Inger 
Ann Mattes Griffin.
  Today, we offer heartfelt congratulations to Wolf as he celebrates 
his 80th birthday. This is truly a joyous occasion. His unending love 
of family, friends, and country, as well as his devotion to those who 
have had the privilege of knowing him serve as inspiration to all.
  Happy birthday, Wolf. May you enjoy happiness, good fortune, and good 
health for many years to come.

                          ____________________