[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 114 (Thursday, July 14, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1121]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF MR. JOE OSCAR ERNI

                                 ______
                                 

                      HON. CATHY McMORRIS RODGERS

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 14, 2016

  Mrs. McMORRIS RODGERS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mourn the loss of 
Mr. Joe Oscar Erni, who passed away last summer at his home in Sun City 
Center, Florida. Joe lived the quintessential American story--one that 
personified the Greatest Generation.
  Joe was raised on an Indiana dairy farm and studied at Purdue 
University. When World War II broke out, he traded in his textbooks for 
a uniform, serving in the Pacific as a First Lieutenant in the U.S. 
Army. Joe served his country with distinction as an aerial spotter for 
field artillery, having been awarded the Air Medal, with four bronze 
oak leafs, for his service in combat operations.
  Following the war, Joe completed his education at Hanover College, 
and soon went on to marry the love of his life Elizabeth ``Betty'' 
Rodgers in May of 1948. Joe became a venerable part of his community 
while managing the New Albany Inn for 25 years, which led to his title 
of President of the Indiana Hotel/Motel Association. He cared deeply 
for his community and led many philanthropic efforts. He became the 
1956 Chairman of the Floyd County March of Dimes, and served on the 
Floyd Memorial Hospital Board of Directors. Joe was a humble man whose 
life impacted everyone he touched in an extraordinary way. He cared 
deeply for so many people, especially his wife Betty, his three 
children, six grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.
  Everywhere Joe went, he made friends with ease due to his gentle and 
generous spirit. Joe will be remembered for his exceptionally kind 
heart, his loving personality, and his tremendous service to his 
community and our country. I was proud to call Joe a friend and a 
relative, and I will miss his presence in our family.
  Thank you, Joe, for your years of dedication and service. My thoughts 
and prayers are with your family and friends.

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