[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 148 (Tuesday, October 22, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1539]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                HONORING THE LIFE OF ERMA CRAVEIRO TROWE

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JIM COSTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 22, 2013

  Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life of Erma 
Jeremias Craveiro Trowe who passed away on October 13, 2013 at the age 
of 96. Her character exemplified the very best of what our nation has 
to offer--she was thoughtful, generous, and possessed a strong work 
ethic.
  Erma was a Central Valley native. She was born to Antonio and 
Francisca Jeremias on January 8, 1917 at Summit Lake near Fresno, 
California. The Jeremias's were Portuguese immigrants, and they managed 
a farm in Fresno County. When times were tough during the Great 
Depression, Erma and her seven siblings worked alongside their parents 
to help sustain the family farm. Erma attended California State 
University, Fresno, formerly known as Fresno State College and was one 
of the first in her family to graduate from college.
  Erma married Joe Craveiro in 1938. They had four children: Audrey, 
Jerry, Bob, and Thomas. Joe and Erma raised their children in the 
Kearney Park area. Erma stayed active in the community, and was a 
supporter of Houghton-Kearney School, St. Patrick's Church in Kerman, 
and numerous Portuguese fraternal organizations. Joe and Erma also 
operated a dairy and grew alfalfa, cotton, and sugar beets.
  When Joe passed away, Erma pursued a teaching career. She began at 
Madison Grammar School then went to Ahwahnee Middle School, and 
eventually settled at St. Anthony's School, where she taught fifth 
grade for many years. Teaching young people was very rewarding for 
Erma, and her students felt fortunate to have her as a teacher. Erma 
always found joy in the learning process. She loved languages and 
studied Portuguese, Spanish, Russian, and French. Her curiosity about 
the world and different cultures led her to travel to Africa, Europe, 
and Asia.
  Aside from her commitments to her family, career, and the ranch, Erma 
had a lifelong involvement in various community activities. She was a 
member of the Fig Garden Women's Club, served as a Cub Scout Mother, 
and volunteered on the Parents Teacher's Association (PTA). Erma was 
also instrumental in the development of the Houghton-Kearney Elementary 
School.
  Erma married William Trowe in 1981, and he passed away seven short 
years later. However, her faith in God never wavered. She believed that 
God has a plan for all of us, and His presence can be felt in each of 
our lives.
  Erma was a very dear friend to the Costa family. She was one of my 
mother's greatest confidantes, and my sister, Bette, and I could always 
depend on her to be there for us in times of need.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to the 
life of Erma Jeremias Craveiro Trowe. She is admired by all who had the 
pleasure of knowing her, and she will be remembered for her warm and 
loving heart.

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