[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 118 (Friday, July 25, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1239]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      TRIBUTE TO DENNIS DOUGHERTY

                                  _____
                                 

                           HON. DIANA DeGETTE

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, July 25, 2014

  Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the accomplishments and 
life of Dennis Dougherty who passed away last February at the age of 
70. As his friends and loved ones gather to celebrate his life, he 
deserves our recognition as a distinguished veteran, businessman, 
community leader, advocate and philanthropist.
  Dennis was dedicated to improving life for so many through both local 
and national politics as well as community organizations. He had a 
profound impact on countless lives, particularly on the young people of 
Colorado, and he was the recipient of numerous awards, including the 
2005 Equality in Business Award from the Human Rights Campaign and the 
Matthew Shepard Foundation's Essential Peace Award.
  Born in 1943 in Omaha, Nebraska, Dennis was drafted to fight in 
Vietnam at the age of 21. As a proud veteran and patriot, he led the 
charge for progress in the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender 
community, and his influence was a guiding force for public policy and 
opinion. He testified before Congress on the military's ``Don't Ask, 
Don't Tell'' policy, and he mentored several young men who served in 
the armed forces.
  Dennis relocated to Denver after his service in the military. He was 
the founder and CEO of the technology company Visual Electronics. His 
business success gave him the means to become a generous 
philanthropist, contributing to causes that ranged from disabled skiers 
to homeless youth. Moved by the story of Matthew Shepard, the gay 
college student who was tortured and killed near Laramie, Wyoming, 
Dennis became a major supporter and board member of the foundation 
started on Matthew's behalf. An unwavering and unapologetic voice in 
the community as an openly gay veteran, Dennis wanted to fight against 
the challenges he faced in his youth.
  Dennis had a heart of gold. Every year he cleaned out his closet to 
donate to an organization that helped homeless vets get back on their 
feet. He always felt that a good suit gave them a better shot at a new 
start. In each jacket he put a note that read ``someone loves you.''
  I am one of those lucky enough to call Dennis a friend as well. I 
know and have worked with numerous others who were touched by Dennis' 
efforts or encouragement in some way, and many have gone on to do great 
things for our community. I have fond memories of the times he and I 
rode together in his pride and joy--his red convertible--in Denver 
parades.
  Please join me in paying tribute to the life of Dennis Dougherty. 
Every day he fought to expand opportunity, equality and freedom. His 
determination sustained him through many challenges--with tremendous 
results for our community. He leaves behind a legacy of charity and 
compassion and serves as a role model for all who believe as he did: 
that ``we are one tribe, y'all.''

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