[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 128 (Tuesday, September 8, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1233]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 TRIBUTE TO THE LIFE OF PHILIP HAGOPIAN

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JIM COSTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, September 8, 2015

  Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Philip 
Hagopian of Madera, California who recently passed away on August 20, 
2015 at the age of 64. Philip will be missed greatly by his family, 
friends, and community.
  Mr. Hagopian was born in Fresno, California on November 12, 1950, to 
Edward and Margaret Hagopian. He spent his early years in Fresno, 
before moving with his family to Kerman, and eventually settling in 
Madera. Upon graduating from high school, Philip went on to earn his 
B.A. in History from the University of California, Davis. After trying 
his hand at various occupations, he came back home to Madera and joined 
the family business, farming with his father, when he was 32 years old.
  In 1998, Philip married the love of his life, Ms. Carol Ann LeMarr. 
The following year, his dream of being a father came true when their 
son, Aram Alexander was born. He was a devoted husband and father, and 
he truly loved farming in the San Joaquin Valley. Philip had a 
nurturing heart, and he enjoyed nothing more than to walk out into the 
fields and appreciate the crops he sowed.
  Mr. Hagopian was also dedicated to serving his community. For many 
years, he provided goods and services, and was active in his 
agricultural profession. For instance, Philip served on the Madera 
County Planning Commission, board member for the Raisin Bargaining 
Association, Trustee of the Board at Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic 
Church, and he served his country in the United States Army.
  Without question, Mr. Hagopian's integrity, honor and long-lasting 
involvement in the raisin industry made him a reputable man; he was 
well known, well-liked and shown enormous appreciation by fellow 
farmers in the Central Valley. Philip worked hard and expected nothing 
in return. This same generous spirit was evident in Philip's love for 
his family. I am honored to join his family in celebrating the life of 
Philip Hagopian. His presence will be dearly missed in our community 
for many years to come.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in remembering a man of 
great service and dedication. His memory will live on through his 
family and be remembered by many in our community. We are all better 
for having known Mr. Philip Hagopian, a remarkable Californian and 
Central Valley native.

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