[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 135 (Friday, September 19, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1488]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                              JIM OBERSTAR

                                  _____
                                 

                          HON. EARL BLUMENAUER

                               of oregon

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 18, 2014

  Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, as I get on my bike to ride home tonight 
I'll be smiling, thinking of Jim Oberstar.
  There has never been anyone in public life who was more committed to 
cycling. The joys of the exercise, the power to help people enjoy the 
freedom, health and advantages of cycling--no one more committed to 
making it safe for our families.
  And that's just the tiniest fraction of the Jim Oberstar story. We 
could spend the next two hours talking about his contributions to 
aviation, to a strong rail system, to making our roads and bridges 
safe, resources to expand infrastructure where we need, and the vision 
and money to maintain and improve where we need to.
  Jim dedicated his life to rebuilding and renewing America. Over the 
last half century, his fingerprints are on all the major advances, 
whether he was in a staff capacity, a Committee member, in a powerful 
leadership position, in the Minority or in the Majority, Jim Oberstar 
was there, his influence felt, his advice and guidance welcomed, and he 
made a difference.
  As rich and important were his many contributions to rebuilding and 
renewing America, he was far more than that. He was a kind and caring 
Member of this Chamber who listened to people regardless of their 
position in the legislative pecking order.
  Jim truly was interested in what they needed, what they thought, and 
if there was a way that he could help them, consistent with his vision 
and values. Because he was a consummate legislator, often, he could do 
both.
  Last, but by no means least, Jim Oberstar was a caring family man, 
driven by his principles, his faith, love for his family, and concern 
for everyone else's family.
   To his beloved wife Jean, thank you so much for sharing this unique 
human being with us and being his partner helping him do so much, bring 
so much joy and so much . . . not just progress . . . but joy . . . a 
man who truly loved his work as he loved his family and he loved his 
country.
  Yes, Jim Oberstar will be missed. But I for one will feel his 
presence, his commitment, his example, every day I serve in Congress 
and so it is for many others.

                          ____________________