[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 91 (Thursday, May 25, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E729-E730]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 IN HONOR OF ROY REESE'S 80TH BIRTHDAY

                                  _____
                                 

                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 25, 2017

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I take 
this opportunity to recognize a fine Hoosier and my friend, Roy Reese, 
on the occasion of his 80th birthday, which he will celebrate on 
Tuesday, June 13, 2017. Mr. Reese has been a pillar of his community in 
Wheatfield, Indiana, for nearly half a century, and having known him 
for many years, I can attest to his steadfast dedication to improving 
the quality of life for his fellow citizens. I congratulate Roy as he 
celebrates this momentous occasion with his many family members and 
friends.
  Roy Reese was born in Stevenson, Alabama, on June 13, 1937. A proud 
American and true patriot, Roy joined the United States Air Force in 
1954 and eventually became the crew chief for large cargo helicopters 
before returning to civilian life in 1958. Upon his return, Roy began 
his career with Operating Engineers Local 150 and has been a proud 
union member with the organization for more than fifty-four years. In 
addition, Mr. Reese has also utilized his vast agricultural knowledge 
which has helped him to become a successful farmer.
  Roy has also proven himself to be a devoted public servant, as well 
as an esteemed member of his church. A lifelong Democrat, Mr. Reese 
served on the Gilliam Township Advisory Board for twenty-four years. A 
proud veteran as well as a man of great faith, he is also a lay speaker 
at Tefft United Methodist Church and has also served as chaplain for 
American Legion Post 228 in Francesville, Indiana. In addition, Roy has 
been a member of Masonic Lodge No. 642, located in Wheatfield, for more 
than fifty years.
  I would be remiss if I did not share one specific example of the type 
of person Roy Reese is. While he is well-known in his community and in 
his church for his selfless service, Roy truly epitomizes what it means 
to be a good neighbor, regardless of the season. In fact, Roy has 
always taken it upon himself to clear snow from his neighbors' 
driveways during the cold winter months, a service illustrative of his 
generous spirit.

[[Page E730]]

  However, Roy Reese is first and foremost a family man. I am certain 
Roy would confirm that his greatest source of pride is his loving 
family. Roy wed his beloved wife, Bonnie, on January 20,1958, and the 
couple has spent the past fifty-nine years by each other's side. Roy 
and Bonnie are the proud parents of four sons, Daniel, Michael, 
Richard, and Roy Douglas Reese. They are also the loving grandparents 
of seventeen and the adoring great-grandparents of fourteen.
  Mr. Speaker, Roy Reese has been a dedicated member of and inspiration 
to his community throughout his life, and on this special occasion, it 
is fitting that I take this time to honor him and to commend him for 
all that he has done for so many for so long. At this time, I ask that 
you and all of my distinguished colleagues join me in wishing Roy a 
Happy 80th Birthday and many more joyous years to come.

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