[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 126 (Thursday, July 16, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E636]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         TRIBUTE TO RIGDON FRANCIS CURRIE ON HIS 90TH BIRTHDAY

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                           HON. ANNA G. ESHOO

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 16, 2020

  Ms. ESHOO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Rigdon Francis 
Currie, a former long-time resident of Palo Alto who is celebrating his 
90th birthday on July 17, 2020. He was born in Atlanta, Georgia, to 
Constance Berry Currie and Charles James Currie and he had one sibling, 
Charles James Currie, Jr.
  Georgia born and bred, Rigdon retains the elegant accent and perfect 
manners he learned growing up in the South. A Georgia Tech and Harvard 
Business School graduate, Rigdon served our country in the Air Force 
for two years, and went on to lead a productive and adventure-filled 
life. His great career at Xerox was followed by a productive tenure as 
a venture capitalist, creating hundreds of well-paying jobs. 
Exceedingly generous with his time, resources and talent, he mentored 
countless career-seekers, leading them to positions that ideally suit 
them. His generosity extended to many non-profit organizations, 
including the Pacific Theological School in Berkeley where he served on 
the Board for many years. His efforts in Mann County resulted in many 
miles of roads in Point Reyes being free of trash.
  Rigdon is an ardent birder. He has seen and identified more than 
5,000 species during his birdwatching avocation, and travelled to 90 
countries in pursuit of them. He loves sharing his love of birds with 
others, and often carries a tripod and telescope to make sure others 
are able to see and appreciate his finds.
  Rigdon is the adoring father of two sons, Steven and David, their 
partners and his grandchildren. He is the proud stepfather of Chris and 
Alexis, their spouses and children. There is nothing any of them can 
ask of him that he would refuse. The center of his family is his wife 
of 40 years, Trish Johnson. Together they have welcomed hundreds into 
their Palo Alto and Point Reyes homes, creating havens for those in 
need. They also created parties, hikes, apple pressing and good times 
for friends in need.
  A brilliant business man, an extraordinary birder, a most generous 
philanthropist, a friend to so many and a devoted family man, Rigdon 
Currie sets an example for all of us to emulate. His ninety years have 
been filled with adventure and giving to others, and we are a better 
and stronger country because of him and his work.
  Madam Speaker, I ask the entire House of Representatives to join me 
in honoring Rigdon Francis Currie as he celebrates his 90th birthday, 
and in wishing him many more years of living life to the fullest.

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