[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 204 (Tuesday, December 12, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1215]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    TRIBUTE TO GABRIEL LEE SHAW, JR.

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. GWEN MOORE

                              of wisconsin

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, December 12, 2023

  Ms. MOORE of Wisconsin. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 
life and service of Gabriel (Gabe) Lee Shaw, Jr., a dedicated 
individual, a family-oriented man, a lifelong learner, and one of my 
dearest friends. I fondly referred to him as my ``brother-in-love,'' it 
saddens me to say that Gabe passed peacefully on Thursday, December 7, 
2023, with his beloved wife of 41 years, Shirley Ellis, District 
Director of Wisconsin's 4th Congressional District by his side. The 
breadth of Gabe's accomplishments far exceeds his 78 years.
  Gabe was born in Osceola, Arkansas, into the loving union of Gabriel 
Lee Shaw and Mary Hall Shaw. Gabe's life began as the first son among 
eight children, including five daughters and three sons. Graduating 
from North Division High School in 1963, he embarked on a path of hard 
work and continuous learning, which led him to proudly join the United 
States Air Force at the age of 17 the same year.
  His dedication was evident as he graduated from the U.S. Air Force 
Explosive Ordinance Disposal School at Eglin AFB in Florida. Gabe's 
military service was exceptional, marked by holding one of the highest 
security clearances during the Vietnam era, concluding with an 
honorable discharge in 1968. Gabe's work ethic and commitment to detail 
became a hallmark of his character. He often declared, ``you cannot 
talk work done,'' demonstrating his resolve to address and solve any 
challenge thrown his way. Following his military service, his pursuit 
of knowledge persisted, leading him to enroll in both UW-Platteville 
and UW-Milwaukee with a focus on mathematics. His passion for cars 
propelled him to become an Automotive Service Excellence Certified 
technician.
  Known for his love of challenges, Gabe accomplished the remarkable 
feat of passing all eight comprehensive exams required for the 
Automotive Excellence certificate on his first attempt, maintaining 
this certification for an impressive 15 years. He later attended 
Milwaukee Area Technical College and became a certified Air 
Conditioning and Heating Specialist. Gabe retired from Miller Brewing 
Company in 2005 after 30 years of service. His illustrious 30-year 
tenure at Miller Brewing Company showcased his dedication and loyalty.
  Gabe, son of a carpenter, had an unquenchable thirst for knowledge 
that extended to various subjects, including taxes, carpentry, 
electrical work, masonry, and heating/cooling. This extensive expertise 
paved the way for his successful career, culminating in becoming a 
licensed Real Estate Broker in 1977. With a wealth of knowledge, Gabe 
thrived as a property owner. His ability to repair and maintain 
properties enabled him to support his family and community. He bailed 
out countless people with home and auto repairs operating as a 
contractor under the telling banner of GOOD AND FAIR.
  Gabe's four daughters, son and grandchildren all benefited from his 
talent, intelligence, love, and generosity. In the weeks before his 
death, Gabe shared with me a message to all our progeny. ``Don't make 
excuses, if you work hard, look forward and not backwards you can 
accomplish anything with just an average aptitude.'' Gabe shared his 
life with his beloved wife, business partner and best friend, Shirley 
A. Ellis, who for over 41 years supported each other in health and 
sickness, exemplifying a dynamic and supportive partnership.
  Gabe's role as a great provider extended beyond his immediate family, 
as he generously shared his wisdom with mentees, especially young men, 
offering valuable insights into the trade.
  Personally, Gabriel supported me during some of the most challenging 
times of my life. My brother-in-love was a comforting resource for me 
as an 18-year-old new parent, as a candidate without a dime to donate 
to my own campaign, as a ``handy'' friend who rescued me time and time 
again as a new homeowner of an old house.
  Mr. Speaker, Gabriel Lee Shaw, Jr., was a cherished member of 
Milwaukee, the 4th Congressional District, and the entire State of 
Wisconsin. He is an example of how patriotism, hard work, lifelong 
learning, and kindness can create a fulfilling life,
  I will always treasure his personal impact on me, and I rise to honor 
the late Gabriel L. Shaw, Jr.

                          ____________________