[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 22 (Monday, February 8, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E127]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





             COMMEMORATING THE LIFE OF SEN. HARRIET SPANEL

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. SUZAN K. DelBENE

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, February 8, 2016

  Ms. DelBENE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Ms. Harriet 
Spanel, who recently passed away at the age of 77.
  Harriet served in the Washington State Legislature for more than two 
decades, representing Northwest Washington with immense dedication and 
conviction.
  Harriet had an intense passion for making her community a better 
place. She served on many local boards and committees, and took a hands 
on approach to what she saw as her civic responsibility.
  So it was no surprise that when Harriet decided to run for office and 
was elected to the state House, and then the Senate, she jumped in head 
first without hesitation.
  Throughout her political career, Harriet was a strong proponent for 
her constituents, sticking up for the local fishing economy and for the 
preservation of some of our state's most beautiful lands
  She was a constant advocate for her community, always fighting for 
what she believed would make a positive difference, however large or 
small.
  My heart goes out to all her family and friends. Harriet will be 
greatly missed by the countless lives she touched, but her presence 
through the work she accomplished will continue to resonate in Whatcom, 
San Juan and Skagit counties as well as throughout our state for years 
to come.

                          ____________________