[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 175 (Tuesday, October 5, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1064]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   HONORING THE LIFE OF GARY STAMPER

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. JAIME HERRERA BEUTLER

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, October 5, 2021

  Ms. HERRERA BEUTLER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of 
Southwest Washington resident and Lewis County Commissioner, Gary 
Stamper. Gary sadly passed away last week at the age of 67 after 
fighting a battle with COVID-19.
  Gary went to school and graduated from Mossyrock High School, and 
eventually earned a Master's in School Administration from Heritage 
University.
  For years, Gary devoted his life to public education--working as a 
principal, teacher, and coach in East Lewis county. He truly cared 
about his students succeeding in all aspects of life. One of his most 
memorable achievements was leading the Mossyrock Girls Basketball team 
to a state championship. Since his passing, there has been an 
outpouring of support from former students talking about Gary; not only 
as a principal, teacher, coach, but as a mentor, a role model and 
supporter at times in their lives when they most needed it.
  It was his strong commitment to the rural communities in Lewis County 
for which so many people know him. Following his retirement from public 
education in 2014, Gary continued to serve his community as a Lewis 
County Commissioner.
  If it was an issue that mattered to small businesses, to schools, to 
families or to the surrounding forests, Gary knew about it and he was a 
most effective advocate for it. I cherish deeply my work alongside 
Gary. We lost a great leader.
  I'm extending my thoughts, prayers, and deepest sympathies to Gary's 
family and friends during this difficult time.

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