[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 28 (Wednesday, February 27, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E199]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  HONORING THE LIFE OF RAYMOND MINNITE

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JIM COSTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 27, 2013

  Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay to tribute to the life of 
Raymond Minnite, who lived a long and fulfilling life of 95 years. As 
founder of the town of Three Rocks in California, Raymond was a true 
supporter and advocate for our Central Valley. His kind heart and 
generosity will be greatly missed.
  Raymond was born into a large family with nine brothers and sisters. 
His parents were first generation immigrants from Italy. Growing up in 
an immigrant family of 12, Raymond quickly developed great values and 
principles. He knew the importance of treating others with respect, 
compassion, and consideration. Raymond's charitable acts were witnessed 
by many because helping those in need was essential to him.
  As a young man, Raymond served in the Army in World War II. He was 
stationed in Germany, Italy, and France. Raymond did not discuss the 
brutalities of war with his family and friends. Instead he shared about 
the times when he would take extra food to the hungry children. 
Raymond's positive outlook on life was apparent to all of those around 
him.
  After Raymond married Bernadette and they had their children: Gary, 
Jack, Bernadette, Janis, Dion, and John, he purchased 20 acres of land 
at the intersection of Clarkson and Highway 33. There was nothing built 
on the land, but he had a vision. Bernadette believed in his plan, so 
he had his families support. Raymond's boys took part in the project 
and helped him salvage old wood and nails. Slowly a small town was 
built, and Raymond named it Three Rocks. Surrounded by farming 
communities, it serves a place for farm laborers to live. Today, Three 
Rocks has about 230 residents.
  Raymond had an ingenious idea, and he made it into a reality. He 
truly achieved the ``American Dream.'' Raymond's children, 17 
grandchildren, and 31 great-grandchildren have an outstanding role 
model that they will hold in their hearts forever.
  Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect that I ask my colleagues in the 
House of Representatives to pay tribute to the life of Raymond Minnite. 
His presence will be greatly missed, but his legacy will surely live on 
in Fresno County.

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