[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 88 (Monday, June 9, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E927-E928]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             HONORING THE LIFE OF WILLIAM ``BILL'' HARDACRE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. SUSAN W. BROOKS

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, June 9, 2014

  Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to 
Mr. William ``Bill'' Hardacre of Anderson, Indiana. He passed away on 
May 11, 2014, at the age of 82. A man of deep faith, Bill worked for 
decades toward the improvement of his city and country. He served both 
the United States and Anderson with integrity and honor.
  A lifelong Hoosier and Anderson resident, Bill graduated from 
Anderson High School. He then earned a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting 
from Indiana University. Upon completion of his degree, Bill served in 
the U.S. Army during the Korean War from 1952 through 1954.
  Returning to Anderson, Bill joined the family business, Best Ever 
Dairy, as treasurer. During his 35-year career with the company, it 
grew from a local operation to a business serving central Indiana and 
beyond. After retiring, he continued his business ventures by 
developing both residential and commercial properties in Anderson and 
founding, E.V.I., an electric vehicle manufacturing firm now based in 
California.
  Not only was Bill an accomplished businessman, he also played an 
exceptionally active role in the Anderson community. He was a member of 
the First United Methodist Church, where he was a lay leader for more 
than two decades. He also held leadership positions at the Christian 
Center, Fine Arts Center, Evening Exchange Club, the Harter House, and 
was a member of the board of trustees at Anderson University for 15 
years.
  Yet another example of Bill's dedication to the Anderson community 
was his work to save and restore the historic Paramount Theatre. Built 
in 1929, the Paramount was a major attraction for decades. A true 
architectural gem, its grandeur was a source of admiration and pride 
for the entire Anderson community. However, by 1989 the building had 
fallen into severe disrepair. Along with a group of community leaders, 
Bill formed the Paramount Theatre Heritage Foundation, saving the 
historic landmark from demolition and preserving its beauty for future 
generations. He then went on to serve as the Foundation's first 
President and was a member of the board of directors until his passing.
  Bill Hardacre is an irreplaceable member of the Anderson community 
whose legacy will live on for generations to come. Without his tireless 
devotion, Anderson would not be the wonderful community it is today. He 
worked for a lifetime toward making his hometown a

[[Page E928]]

more prosperous city. I will never forget my initial visit with Bill at 
the Toast Cafee or our talks at Lake Wawasee, discussing the issues 
facing Indiana's 5th Congressional District and beyond. I want to thank 
Bill's wife, Ann Hardacre, and the rest of his family for sharing Bill 
with myself and so many others. He touched our lives and served as a 
shining example for all those working to make a better life for future 
generations.

                          ____________________