[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 21 (Thursday, February 4, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E110]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 HONORING THE LIFE OF RICHARD S. PEPPER

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. DARIN LaHOOD

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, February 4, 2021

  Mr. LaHOOD. Madam Speaker, I would like to honor and remember the 
life of Richard Pepper, who passed away peacefully on January 28, 2021, 
at the age of 90.
  Born in Barrington, Illinois in 1930, Richard, at an early age, 
displayed natural gravitation towards construction and philanthropy. 
Richard began his career working as an estimator for Pepper 
Construction in 1957. Soon after marrying his beloved wife, Roxy, 
Richard assumed leadership of the company after the sudden passing of 
his father, Stanley Pepper. Despite his young age, Richard showed the 
maturity and inclination to grow and foster the company and the ideals 
that his father had implemented. Under Richard's leadership, Pepper 
Construction strived to ensure their building decisions impacted the 
future to create a better quality of life for all.
  Richard grew Pepper Construction into the nationally recognized 
construction firm known by so many across the Midwest. Richard held 
several leadership positions in the construction industry, including 
serving as president of the Associated General Contractors of America 
in 1983. He received the Jack Kinnaman Leadership Award from the 
American Institute of Constructors in 2015, which honors corporation 
leaders who have taken a visible leadership role in the American 
Institute of Constructors.
  Richard's leadership at Pepper Construction has fostered a corporate 
culture that promotes community and industry involvement. During his 
time, Richard was well-known for his outspoken support of community 
improvement, advocating for bold initiatives, and striving to transform 
tomorrow.
  We mourn the passing of Richard, a friend, and mentor to many. He 
left a lasting impact on those who had the pleasure of knowing him. May 
his memory be eternal.