[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 6 (Tuesday, January 10, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E43]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       TRIBUTE TO JOHN J. BENOIT

                                  _____
                                 

                            HON. KEN CALVERT

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, January 10, 2017

  Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to 
Riverside County Supervisor John J. Benoit, who passed away in 
California on Monday, December 26, 2016. John served the people of 
Riverside County in many ways throughout his life and he will be deeply 
missed.
  John started his career in public service at the Corona Police 
Department. From there, he embarked on 29 years of service with the 
California Highway Patrol, which culminated with his promotion to 
commander of the CHP's Indio Station. After serving in law enforcement, 
John became increasingly active in his community. He was elected to the 
Desert Sands School Board before being elected to the California State 
Assembly in 2002. John ultimately served three terms in the Assembly 
during which time he passed significant legislation, including 
``Aryanna's Law'' to enhance the protection of children in daycare 
centers. In 2009, John was appointed to the Riverside County Board of 
Supervisors to carry out the remaining term of his friend, Supervisor 
Roy Wilson, who had passed away. Throughout his life, John was a 
dedicated, effective and passionate advocate for the Coachella Valley 
and Riverside County.
  As a member of the Coachella Valley community, John served in many 
service organizations, including as past president of both the United 
Way of the Desert and Indio Rotary. John was an avid pilot, who often 
flew himself and other legislators up to Sacramento when the Assembly 
was in session. John and his wife, Sheryl, were married in 1978, and 
later celebrated the births of their daughter, Sarah, and son, Ben.
  I had the distinct privilege of knowing John for many years. I was 
proud to call him my friend and I will deeply miss him. I extend my 
heartfelt condolences to the Benoit family, his friends, as well as his 
staff and colleagues. Although John may be gone, the many life-changing 
contributions he made here in Riverside County will have a lasting 
impact.

                          ____________________