[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 74 (Thursday, May 23, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E744]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 REMEMBERING THE LIFE OF ARLENE BILLAK

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. TIM RYAN

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 23, 2013

  Mr. RYAN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember the 
extraordinary life of my friend and supporter Arlene Billak who sadly 
passed away on April 21, 2013. Arlene was born January 13, 1949, in 
Sharon, Pennsylvania to her loving parents Stan and Marie Izenas. 
Arlene was a graduate of Sharon High School and retired from State Farm 
Insurance as an office manager.
   Arlene was a devoted wife and mother who provided constant love and 
support and was always willing to sacrifice her all for her family. 
Arlene was a woman of strength and humility who never refused to give 
up after being diagnosed with cancer. She courageously fought until her 
final days, always making sure that she had a smile on her face. Her 
loving heart and spirit will continue to be felt everyday by those who 
loved her and those she loved.
   I would like to extend my deepest and heartfelt sympathies to Arlene 
Billak's family: her husband Rick, her son Damian, her two brothers 
Paul and Bob Izenas, and her two sisters Kathy and Irene. Rest assured 
the love and devotion she had for her family and friends will never be 
forgotten.
   I have known Arlene and Rick for many years. They have been active 
in politics for decades. They were always there to support and push 
their candidates and those issues that improve the quality of life for 
those who have the least. Arlene believed that politics could make a 
positive difference in people's lives, and she showed us all how one 
person can make a difference. I will always remember the example she 
set and how she constantly shared her upbeat and positive demeanor with 
the world. Our community, and all that knew her, are better because we 
crossed paths with Arlene Billak.

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