[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 25 (Monday, February 13, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E176]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             HONORING THE LIFE OF PETER VINCENT BELEZZUOLI

                                  _____
                                 

                             HON. JIM COSTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, February 13, 2017

  Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today along with my colleague Mr. 
Valadao, to honor the life and achievements of Peter Vincent 
Belezzuoli. Peter passed away on December 15 at the age of 61. He will 
be remembered as a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, auctioneer, 
dairyman, and friend to all who knew him.
  Peter was born on August 22, 1955 in Tulare, California to Pete and 
Louise Belezzuoli. In 1959, the Belezzuolis moved to Hanford, 
California after his father purchased Overland Stockyard. From a young 
age, Peter worked with his father to learn all aspects of the cattle 
business. He graduated from Hanford High School in 1973. During his 
years at Hanford High he was a member of 4-H and FFA, in addition to 
playing on the basketball team. It was his father's business partner 
Hoke Evetts that taught him the art of auctioneering. Following high 
school, Peter attended College of the Sequoias and graduated from 
Missouri Auction School as a Colonel in 1974.
  Peter took over his father's role at Overland Stockyard following 
Pete's sudden death in 1983. Peter continued his father's legacy 
through the passion he put into his work each and every day. Peter 
became very well known in the dairy cattle, and beef cattle sales 
industry both locally and throughout the country. He was an innovative 
businessman, utilizing internet video auction capabilities, allowing 
buyers from all over the country to participate in auctions held in 
Hanford.
  Peter had a number of hobbies that brought him joy. In his spare time 
he enjoyed visiting his home in Shell Beach, riding his pontoon boat 
through Shaver Lake and barbecuing for his many family and friends.
  Peter enjoyed giving back to the community he loved so dearly. He 
frequently used his talents as a skilled auctioneer for local charity 
groups, including the Kings County Fair and the Fresno Fair. He was 
also a lifelong member of St. Brigid Catholic Church in Hanford.
  Peter is survived by his wife of 35 years, Lisa and their children 
Julie, Daniel and Douglas, their spouses and three grandsons, Bryson, 
Korban and Peter.
  Mr. Speaker, I respectfully ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of 
Representatives to join Mr. Valadao and myself in honoring the life of 
Mr. Peter Belezzuoli. He will be remembered as a man of great 
character, who valued his family above all else. His presence in the 
San Joaquin Valley and in the local dairy community will truly be 
missed. We join his family in honoring his life, service to his 
community and tremendous legacy he leaves behind.

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