[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 24 (Wednesday, February 10, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E160]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                HONORING THE LIFE OF MR. JAMES SPEDDING

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. CHRIS COLLINS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 10, 2016

  Mr. COLLINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a 
constituent of New York's 27th Congressional District, Mr. James 
Spedding. Mr. Spedding honorably served his country, his family, and 
his community until his recent passing on January 22, 2016.
  Jim was born in Lockport, NY on April 2, 1929, to parents John Carl 
and Blanch. After graduating from Lockport High School in 1947, Jim was 
eager to serve his country; and, in 1948 he enlisted in the United 
States Air Force. Jim proudly served his country until 1969, when he 
retired from the Air Force as a Chief Master Sergeant. During his 
service, Jim traveled to Texas, Mississippi, Korea, New York and 
California--but Jim's travels did not hold him back from pursuing 
higher education. During his 21 years of service, Jim earned degrees 
from Foothill College and the University of Nebraska, and graduate 
degrees from Chapman University and the University of Southern 
California. After returning home to his friends, family, and his 
beautiful wife, Helen, Jim worked for Harrison Radiator Division, GMC 
until officially retiring in 1989. After spending 41 years serving his 
country and his family, Jim spent the next 26 years serving his 
community. Working closely with the Niagara Falls Air Reserve Base, the 
AARP Income Tax Program, the NYS Office for the Aging, the Dale 
Association, and the Sisters Hospital, Jim demonstrated how important 
it is for members of our community to live their life committed to 
helping those in need.
  As I reflect on the impact Jim Spedding had on those around him, I am 
proud to say he was able to leave his three wonderful children, three 
grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and all of his nieces and 
nephews with a proud example of how to live.

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