[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 135 (Friday, August 12, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E835]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     RECOGNIZING MS. GERI KILSDONK

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. HALEY M. STEVENS

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, August 12, 2022

  Ms. STEVENS. Madam Speaker, it is my great honor to rise in 
recognition of Ms. Geri Kilsdonk, a spirited resident of Plymouth, 
Michigan, who has dedicated herself to numerous causes that benefit 
Michigan's 11th District. Ms. Kilsdonk has made an immense impact on 
the lives of those around her, and I am thrilled to join the community 
in celebrating Ms. Kilsdonk for her many contributions to her fellow 
Americans.
  In 1943, Ms. Geri Kilsdonk was born to Mr. Joseph Kilsdonk and Ms. 
Loretta Kilsdonk. Her father was a member of the International 
Brotherhood of Teamsters, as a ``milk man'' in Illinois, while her 
mother worked hard raising Geri and her two brothers at their home in 
Evanston, Illinois. Geri was prepared for her life of service through 
her Catholic School education, instilling in her values that guided her 
through her adult life and activism.
  In 1968, Geri Kilsdonk married John Flinn, beginning their 33-year 
marriage. The couple made Southeast Michigan their home after departing 
Illinois. Taking advantage of an FHA loan, Ms. Kilsdonk submitted a 
$2,000 down payment on their first Michigan house, making Dearborn 
Heights, Michigan their new community. Like many in Metropolitan 
Detroit, the family made their living by working in the automotive 
industry. Ms. Kilsdonk was proud of her husband's 33-year career at 
Ford Motor Company, eventually earning him an executive-level position. 
In 1974, the family chose the Northville/Plymouth area as their 
permanent residence, launching a nearly-50-year career for Ms. Kilsdonk 
as a prolific activist and promoter of the community.
  A new chapter began with the passing of Geri's husband, John, in 
September of 2001. Geri bravely delivered her husband's eulogy before 
returning to what she did best, advocating for a better society. As a 
member of an automotive family, Geri understood the importance of the 
industry to the lives of many of her neighbors. During the automotive 
financial crisis, Geri lost the healthcare coverage she earned as a 
surviving spouse of a Ford retiree. Geri knew that her neighbors were 
also feeling the strain from the struggling automotive industry, so she 
created her own script and called her neighbors to discuss these 
important issues and urge them to take action through civic 
participation.
  Described as a ``doer'' by those who know her, Geri donates immense 
amounts of time to the causes that she valued. She has supported Ronald 
McDonald House Charities for many years, along with contributions to 
the arts and culture through her support of the Plymouth Historical 
Museum and the Penn Theater. Geri's impact extends to education, as 
well, having created a nursing scholarship for future medical 
professionals and part of the Schoolcraft College Foundation. Many in 
Michigan's 11th District and across the state have benefitted from 
expanded educational opportunities, gained access to critical services, 
and engaged with the vibrant cultural experiences that have been 
supported by Ms. Kilsdonk.
  Madam Speaker, Geri continues to bring about positive change to 
Michigan's 11th District with her ongoing contributions to civics, 
health, and the arts. Please join me in thanking Geri for her 
commitment to strengthening our communities.

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