[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 161 (Friday, October 7, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1030]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF BILL JIMMERSON

                                 ______
                                 

                     HON. MATTHEW M. ROSENDALE, SR.

                               of montana

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 7, 2022

  Mr. ROSENDALE. Madam Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to a dedicated 
public servant and Montana legend, Bill Jimmerson, who passed away last 
week at the age of 74. Bill will best be remembered for his outsized 
impact in Montana. As a well-known Montana State FFA advisor and an 
agricultural educator, Bill taught and influenced thousands of 
agriculture advocates, government officials, and aspiring students over 
his 32 years of service.
  Bill drew his inspiration for agriculture from his father, who was 
the FFA advisor for Lewistown, Montana. His father corralled him one 
day and asked a young Bill if he wanted to stay in Winifred to play 
sports or go to Lewistown to receive an education. Bill, interested in 
agriculture at the time, decided to go to Lewistown with his father and 
embark on a journey that would change his life forever.
  His time in Lewistown would eventually lead to a career in teaching 
in Conrad, Montana. In 1980, he began teaching at Conrad High School, 
providing students with the knowledge and skills needed to start their 
own careers in state agricultural sales and management. In 2003, he 
concluded his teaching career and became an Agricultural Loan Officer 
for Stockman Bank. Bill then served as Montana State FFA Advisor from 
2005 to 2013. During his tenure, he was widely known for the breadth 
and depth of his knowledge: he was familiar with every parcel of land 
and had a grasp on agricultural issues facing the entire state. Many 
drew inspiration from Bill and often sought his advice.
  Bill was known as an architect of Montana agriculture. In 2012 he 
developed a national program for Native American FFA members, earning 
recognition from the White House and laying the groundwork for more 
improvements across the state. His national program encouraged many 
Native Americans to become more immersed in agriculture, allowing more 
Montanans to invest in their state and its policies.
  Bill Jimmerson will be missed, not just by family and friends, but by 
all Montanans who were touched by his service. His impact will continue 
to be felt as the next generation prepares to tackle Montana's most 
pressing agricultural issues. Bill has left an indelible mark on his 
community and Montana agriculture--he will be remembered fondly.

                          ____________________