[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 108 (Wednesday, June 21, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E595]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     HONORING CAPTAIN CHRIS PARSONS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. BETTY McCOLLUM

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 21, 2023

  Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to a Saint Paul 
firefighter who was taken from us much too soon. Captain Christopher 
Parsons was just 48 years old when he sustained a major medical event 
shortly after completing his shift and passed away late last week. His 
untimely passing is a deep and profound loss for his loved ones, fellow 
firefighters, and our entire City.
  Chris was born in Keokuk, Iowa, and grew up in Minneapolis in the 
Marcy-Holmes neighborhood near a fire station in a two-bedroom 
apartment, sharing a bedroom with his brother. He attended Minneapolis 
South and Columbia Heights high schools and was recruited to play 
football at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. Chris graduated 
with a degree in Psychology.
  A firefighter for over 20 years, Chris started his career as a Saint 
Paul firefighter in 2000 and was promoted to captain in 2007, serving 
our community at Station 22 at Front Ave. and Marion Street in Saint 
Paul's North End. In addition to fighting fires, Chris served in 
leadership roles for IAFF Local 21, the Minnesota Professional Fire 
Fighters, the Minnesota Fire Service Foundation, and Firefighters 
United Association of Saint Paul, which represents the city's Black 
firefighters.
  Chris was well known at the Minnesota State Capitol, where he was a 
tireless champion for the safety and wellness of all firefighters. He 
worked to advance legislation banning cancer-causing chemical flame 
retardants, to secure financial relief for firefighters injured in 
their work, for measures to protect first-responders from PTSD and 
COVID and sought to raise awareness of the dangers faced by 
firefighters.
  Chris had an impact on so many, myself included. Captain Parsons was 
a guide for me as I learned more about firefighting and the needs of 
the Saint Paul Fire Department. I was so fortunate to call him a 
friend.
  He fought to save lives during his time on earth and continues to do 
so even now through the gift of organ donation.
  Chris will be greatly missed by the IAFF Local 21 members, the Saint 
Paul Fire Department, the Minnesota Fire Service, and his friends and 
family. Flags at the state Capitol will be flown at half-staff to honor 
Chris until sunset on Wednesday, June 21. His funeral is scheduled for 
Wednesday on Nicollet Island in Saint Paul.
  Minnesota has lost a stalwart firefighter, a tireless public safety 
advocate, and dedicated family man. I extend my deepest condolences to 
Captain Parsons' family and my gratitude for all those who put their 
lives on the line day after day to keep our community safe.

                          ____________________