[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 171 (Wednesday, October 18, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E989]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    REMEMBERING RICHARD E. SANTSPREE

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. ELISE M. STEFANIK

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, October 18, 2023

  Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today to honor and 
remember the life of United States Army veteran Richard Edward 
Santspree.
  Richard was born in Troy, New York on July 28, 1950. After graduating 
from Cohoes High School, Richard enlisted with the United States Army 
in October 1967. He served in the Army for three years, rising to the 
rank of Specialist Fourth Class, before he was honorably discharged in 
October 1970. For his service, Richard was awarded the National Defense 
Service Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, and M16 Expert and 
M14 Sharpshooter badges. Richard remained with the Army Reserves until 
1973.
  Returning to civilian life, Richard married the love of his life 
Christine Hogan Santspree in April 1971. They moved to Cohoes and 
started their family together, raising three children: Kimberly, 
Richard Jr., and Thomas. Richard spent his professional career with 
General Electric in Schenectady, working as a machinist for four 
decades before retiring in August 2010.
  Richard was a well-rounded member of the Cohoes and Troy communities, 
participating in his local church, veterans' organizations, and 
recreational activities. He was a member of the Cohoes Moose Club, the 
Cohoes-Waterford Elk's Lodge 1317, and the American Legion Ruane Post 
476. Richard competed in a league at the Cohoes Bowling Arena, along 
with the Cohoes Rod and Gun Club's Dart and Horseshoe League. Richard 
assisted with St. Rita's Church's annual bazaar, as well as the Rod and 
Gun Club's kids' fishing contest at the Van Schaick Island pond. More 
than anything, he was a proud family man who enjoyed travelling and 
spending time with his wife, children, and four grandchildren.
  On behalf of New York's 21st Congressional District, I am honored to 
recognize the life of Mr. Richard E. Santspree, defined by exemplary 
service to his community and his country.

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