[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 8 (Tuesday, January 15, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E44-E45]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         WILLIAM PEARCE TRIBUTE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. SCOTT R. TIPTON

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, January 15, 2019

  Mr. TIPTON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize William Gordon 
Pearce, a Coloradoan, veteran, father, grandfather and great-
grandfather who recently passed away.
  Mr. Pearce was born in Kokomo, Indiana and later joined the U.S. 
Navy. As a member of the U.S. Navy, Mr. Pearce served this country for 
nearly three decades, bravely defending American freedoms during World 
War II, the Korean War and Vietnam. After his military service, he 
sailed for 20 years as a civilian as a Radio Electronics Officer in the 
U.S. Merchant Marines. Throughout all his years of serving his country, 
he had the opportunity to visit over five continents and 70 countries. 
One of his favorite pastimes was sharing old stories of his travels 
with family and friends.
  Not only did Mr. Pearce have a fulfilling professional life, but a 
rich personal life. He is survived by his loving wife Ruth Anne, who he 
was married to for 49 years. He also left behind his son Jeff Pearce, 
daughter Julie Powell, brother-in-law John Lamb, grandchildren Scott 
Pearce, Elizabeth Atwood, Christopher Powell, and great-granddaughter 
Abigail Atwood. Of all his accomplishments, he enjoyed being around the 
ones he loved the most.

[[Page E45]]

  When he was not working, he spent his time within his beloved 
community. His love of airplanes persisted throughout his entire life, 
evident by his membership to the Pueblo Historical Aircraft Society and 
the 22 years he spent volunteering at the local aircraft museum. He was 
also an avid amateur radio operator, member of the American Radio Relay 
League, and the local Ham Club. He was a member of numerous veteran's 
organizations including the Navy League, American Legion, Veterans of 
Foreign Wars, and the Retired Enlisted Association. Mr. Pearce also 
participated in organizations such as Elks Lodge No. 90, Masonic Lodge 
No. 95, Al Kaly Shrine, and the Southern Colorado Consistory.
  Madam Speaker, Mr. Pearce's dedication and love of family will long 
be remembered. It is my privilege to acknowledge him here today, and 
express heartfelt gratitude for his dutiful service to his community 
and this nation.

                          ____________________