[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 108 (Wednesday, June 21, 2023)]
[House]
[Page H2996]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 PAYING TRIBUTE TO CHRISTOPHER PARSONS

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from 
Minnesota (Ms. McCollum) for 5 minutes.
  Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a very heavy heart to 
pay tribute to St. Paul firefighter, my friend, Captain Christopher 
Parsons, who was just 48 years old when he sustained a major medical 
event shortly after completing his shift and passed away last week.
  Christopher's untimely passing is a deep and profound loss for his 
loved ones, fellow firefighters, our entire city, and, in fact, the 
entire State.
  After joining the department in 2000, he was promoted to captain in 
2007. He served in leadership roles for the IAFF Local 21, the 
Minnesota Professional Fire Fighters, and the Minnesota Fire Service 
Foundation, and he took his expertise and passion for public safety to 
our State capital, where he improved public safety for so many.
  Chris was a guide for me. I learned so much from him about 
firefighting and the needs of those who fight fires.
  Captain Parsons had an impact on so many lives. He fought to save 
lives during his time on Earth, and he continues to do so through the 
gift of organ donation.
  I extend my deepest condolences to Chris' family, and I express my 
gratitude for all those who put their lives on the line day after day 
to keep our communities safe.

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