[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 102 (Friday, June 11, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E630]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   HONORING THE LIFE OF JAMES ALKIRE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. MARK DeSAULNIER

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, June 11, 2021

  Mr. DeSAULNIER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life of 
James ``Jim'' Alkire.
  Jim was born in West Virginia in 1934. When he was 10 years old, 
Jim's family relocated to Arizona where he spent the rest of his 
childhood and attended the University of Arizona. In 1957, he was 
drafted into the United States Army and served two years of stateside 
duty. Jim then returned to his education and graduated from Texas 
Western College. From there, he obtained a master's degree in public 
administration from the University of Pennsylvania.
  After completing his education, Jim pursued a career in public 
service. He served as the director of finance and assistant to the city 
manager in Highland Park, Illinois, and then the city manager of 
Centralia, Illinois. In 1970, Jim and his family made a final move to 
Pleasant Hill, California, where he served as the city manager until 
retiring in 1987. Jim is remembered as an outstanding leader who 
fostered positive working environments.
  In his personal life, Jim married his wife, Margaret, in 1960, and 
the couple had three children. Jim was a long-time Rotarian in Illinois 
and California and joined the Pleasant Hill Rotary Club in 1970, where 
he participated in many years of invaluable community service. Jim was 
also an emeritus member of the Pleasant Hill Community Foundation and 
active member of St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church. He coached baseball 
for his sons, listened to jazz music, and was known for his sense of 
humor. In retirement, Jim and Margaret traveled the world together.
  Sadly, Jim passed away in April of this year. Please join me in 
honoring Jim for his leadership and many contributions to our 
community.

                          ____________________