[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 42 (Thursday, March 21, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E348]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         HONORING DEKE TOMPKINS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. FRED UPTON

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 21, 2013

  Mr. UPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the departure of a 
valued member of my team, Mr. Deke Tompkins.
  A proud native of the Great Lakes State and a graduate of Michigan 
State University, Deke began working in my Washington, DC office as a 
staff assistant in 2006. Sitting in the front office, he quickly 
distinguished himself as a welcoming face to all who walked through the 
door. He was a great resource to those calling the office and made 
everyone he spoke with know that their voices were being heard.
  Deke worked his way up to legislative assistant, working on projects 
in the district and managing a broad legislative portfolio, including: 
national security, foreign policy, law enforcement, immigration, and 
labor issues, to name a few. But above all, Deke was a passionate 
advocate for Michigan's military service members, veterans, and their 
families, as well as our local farmers and the Great Lakes.
  Deke has been an invaluable member of our office--a team player who 
was always willing to pitch in wherever help was needed and a friend to 
us all. His enthusiasm in the office was contagious; his intense love 
for all things Michigan State unmatched. A hardworking, humble, and 
selfless person, Deke made a lasting impact in the lives of many, which 
is what public service is all about. Our team will not be the same 
without him.
  Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize Deke Tompkins and his 
outstanding service to the folks of Michigan's Sixth Congressional 
District. I wish him all the best in his future endeavors and know that 
he will continue on to do great things. Go Green!

                          ____________________