[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 7 (Wednesday, January 14, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E70-E71]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         HONORING TONY PADILLA

                                 ______
                                 

                      HON. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM

                             of new mexico

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, January 14, 2015

  Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I rise today 
to honor the life of Tony Padilla, a community icon, loving father and 
proud New Mexican.
  Tony was a lifelong resident of Los Padillas, a community he 
cherished in the South Valley of Bernalillo County. Tony never forgot 
his roots; he lived them every day of his life. He had a fiery passion, 
deep conviction and heartfelt desire to improve the lives of his 
friends and neighbors.
  Many vividly recall his many years at the Bernalillo County Fire 
Commission where he could be found marking the scene of a fire and 
training young firefighters on necessary skills they would need on the 
job. He always had a presence in the community; whether it was helping 
families grieve the tragic loss of a loved one, supporting the Rio 
Grande High School baseball team and Los Padillas Community Center, or 
standing up for his fellow South Valley residents.
  A piece of Tony will live on forever in all of us; that 
characteristic ``Hey neighbor'' from across the yard followed by a 
vibrant smile, those routine visits to the Post Office for a brisk and 
engaging conversation, the fun and laughter at the church Fiesta, the 
insightful life lessons and the endless love he had for everyone he 
met.
  Tony demonstrates the impact that one individual can have on an 
entire community and serves as an inspiration for future generations of 
New Mexicans. His warmth, dedication and selflessness were felt by all. 
My thoughts and prayers are with family, friends and everyone who 
experienced Tony's generosity and compassion. May the memory of Tony 
live on in our hearts.

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