[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 149 (Thursday, September 15, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E943]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    HONORING THE LIFE OF LEE DANKER

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JIM COSTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 15, 2022

  Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Lee 
Walter Danker, a friend to many and advocate for animals. He fought 
pancreatic cancer for almost 4 years and passed surrounded by his 
family on Friday, July 22, 2022. Lee was an important component to the 
community and always cared for those around him.
  Lee Walter Danker was born on November 18, 1961 in Barcelona, Spain. 
He graduated from Campolindo High School, and then in 1984, he earned 
his degree in Communications from California State University, Fresno.
  After college, Lee worked in television for channel 30 and 47. In 
1987, he decided that Macy's would be a great transition in career, and 
in 2003, he became a personal shopper. During those years, Lee made 
many friends and accumulated customers. During his time of working at 
Macy's, I met Lee and cherished our friendship. After years as a 
personal shopper, he retired in 2021. For a total of 35 years, Lee was 
part of Macy's and enjoyed every part of it.
  Lee loved animals and was a proud supporter of donating your time to 
help them. He was a board member for the HOPE Animal Foundation for 16 
years and was a fundraising volunteer for Valley Animal Center. For 36 
years he spent his time helping that organization, and in 2019, Lee 
received the Animal Advocate Award from Valley Animal Shelter. On top 
of his volunteer work, he would give to numerous animal organizations 
whether it was local or not whenever an opportunity was provided to 
him.
  His time was spent giving back to others, and that included for the 
homeless and children. He could be seen handing out water and/or goodie 
bags to the homeless and would contribute to the Big Brother/Big Sister 
Annual Coat Drive. He would advocate for children during those winters 
and encouraged people to purchase coats for the organization.
  When he was not caring for those in need, Lee loved to travel, watch 
movies and TV, spending time in his garden, eating good food, and 
taking cat naps. As long as he was surrounded by people, Lee was his 
happiest.
  Lee is survived by his father, Willard T. Danker of Superior, CO; his 
sister, Stephanie (Kerry) Kirby of Superior, CO; his nieces, Jennifer 
(Casey) Jaeger of Sheridan, WY and Nicole Kirby of Temple, TX; his 
great-niece and nephew, Madison, and Connor Jaeger; and many dear 
friends.
  Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of 
Lee Walter Danker. His selfless love for animals and people, and 
contributions to the community will forever be remembered.

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