[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 89 (Thursday, June 20, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E940]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   A TRIBUTE TO W.A. ``BILL'' KRAUSE

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. TOM LATHAM

                                of iowa

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 20, 2013

  Mr. LATHAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and memory of 
Kum and Go founder W.A. ``Bill'' Krause who passed away on Wednesday, 
June 19, 2013.
   Bill was born on January 13, 1935, and was raised near Hampton and 
Eldora, Iowa. After graduating from Eldora-New Providence High School, 
Bill went on to receive a degree in Journalism and Public Affairs from 
the University of Iowa where he developed his renowned passion for 
Hawkeye athletics. Just two years later in 1959, Bill embarked on two 
journeys that would change his life forever. The first was marrying the 
love of his life, Nancy, and the second was forming a business 
partnership with his new father-in-law to pioneer the idea of a 
``convenience store.'' Together, Bill Krause and Tony Gentle began the 
Krause Gentle Corporation that offered customers a one-stop shop to 
fill their vehicles with gasoline and buy essentials such as milk, 
bread, and eggs. Once Bill and Tony acquired Hampton, Iowa-based Viking 
Oil, the wheels were set in motion to develop one of the greatest and 
most widespread businesses our State has ever seen. By 1976, the Kum 
and Go brand was developed and today has spread to more than 440 stores 
in 11 States. From humble Iowa beginnings, Bill's leadership and 
intelligence has driven his business to become one of the largest 
family-owned chains in the country.
   In addition to his successful professional life, Bill consistently 
served his community in a variety of meaningful capacities. A strong 
advocate for the Catholic Church, Bill was an active member of West Des 
Moines' St. Francis of Assisi parish. Bill also served on the Holy 
Family School Foundation Board and was named a Lifetime Member of the 
Dowling Catholic High School Honorary Foundation Board. Last year, Bill 
and Nancy were chosen to receive Dowling's highest honor, the Civitas 
Award.
   Of course, one could never speak of Bill without mentioning his 
numerous contributions to his alma mater. As a lifelong and die-hard 
fan of the University of Iowa, Bill served his school in numerous ways 
including the National I-Club Board and the Tippie School of Business 
Board. In 1993, Bill earned the coveted ``Hawk of the Year'' title, and 
today the Krause Family Pavilion at Kinnick Stadium continues to serve 
as a reminder of his enthusiasm and support for the school he loved.
   Mr. Speaker, Mr. Krause lived his life in an extraordinary fashion 
and he is a testament to the power of a strong Iowa work ethic and 
commitment to family. It has truly been an honor to represent such an 
exemplary Iowan in the United States Congress, and his contributions to 
our great State will be deeply missed. I offer Nancy and the entire 
Krause family my sincerest sympathies and best wishes in this difficult 
time as we mourn the passing of a true Iowa legend.

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