[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 106 (Wednesday, July 9, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1124]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   HONORING THE LIFE OF TERRY REARDON

                                  _____
                                 

                             HON. JIM COSTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 9, 2014

  Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today along with my colleague Mr. 
George Miller, to pay tribute to the life of Terry Reardon, who passed 
away on July 1, 2014. Terry led by example as his love and appreciation 
for life made him a mentor and friend to many.
  Terry was born in Oakland, California to John and Marian Reardon. The 
Reardons were loyal Democrats, and from a young age, Terry was out 
walking precincts with his parents. His love for politics never wavered 
as he worked on every Presidential campaign from John F. Kennedy to 
President Barack Obama. Terry always showed his support of the 
Democratic party at their National Conventions, and later worked for 
his family friend, Congressman George Miller. Congressman Miller will 
always remember Terry as a wonderful friend who cared about policy and 
the possibility of creating change.
  Terry graduated from California State University, Fresno, and was an 
active member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity which is where my 
lifelong friendship with Terry began. He was my confidant, best friend, 
and honorary brother. He served as my chief of staff for 24 years when 
I was in the California State Legislature and we continued to 
participate in political campaigns together until the very end. He 
worked diligently on legislation relating to comprehensive 
transportation, water, and housing policy. Terry's service to the State 
of California deserves to be commended. Every day, he proudly served 
the residents of our San Joaquin Valley.
  When Terry was not working, he was exploring other parts of the 
world. He had the pleasure of visiting almost every continent. Terry's 
travels gave him a unique perspective and ability to empathize for 
others. He was an amazing individual whose kindness, compassion, and 
generosity were evident to all of those who had the pleasure of knowing 
and crossing paths with him. He touched the lives of countless 
individuals including my own.
  Terry's strength and resilience were a testament to the life he lived 
and to the person he was. He lived each day to its fullest, and we can 
all strive to live life as he did. His sense of humor and vibrant 
spirit were contagious. He will be greatly missed by his brother, Tim 
and his wife, Julie; his nephew, Christopher; his niece, Stacey; his 
former spouse, Linda, and many relatives and friends.
  Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect that Mr. George Miller and I 
ask our colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to pay tribute 
to the life of our dear friend, Terry Reardon. Terry's presence will 
undoubtedly be missed, but the contributions he made to make this world 
a better place will never be forgotten by those who knew him.

                          ____________________