[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 6 (Thursday, January 11, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E31]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        CELEBRATING THE 90TH BIRTHDAY OF PATSY ANN (PAT) DANNER

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. EMANUEL CLEAVER

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, January 11, 2024

  Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, it is with immense pride that I rise today 
to honor a great Missourian, former Congresswoman Pat Danner (MO-6) on 
her 90th birthday. An experienced leader, innovative thinker, and 
dedicated professional, Pat serves as a prime example of a true public 
servant and moreover, a kind human being.
  Born January 13, 1934, in Louisville, Kentucky, Pat grew up in 
Bevier, Missouri where she attended public schools and then graduated 
from Northwest Missouri State University Cum Laude with a BA in 
political science. On the pursuit to grow as a leader and further 
involve herself in public service, Pat went on to work as the District 
Administrator to Congressman Jerry Litton following graduation. As a 
testament to the unwavering commitment to her community and serving 
others, she was appointed to a sub-cabinet position in the 
Administration of President Jimmy Carter.
  In 1982, Pat attained a momentous milestone in her career by securing 
a coveted position in the Missouri State Senate through a triumphant 
electoral victory over incumbent Senator Hardin Cox and was re-elected 
in 1986 and 1990. As a pivotal turning point, Pat successfully ran for 
Congress in 1992, defeating the incumbent Republican Tom Coleman and 
secured her seat in Missouri's Sixth District. She was re-elected to 
the U.S. House of Representatives in 1994, 1996, and 1998.
  Beyond her extraordinary career accomplishments, Pat's courageousness 
and resilience as she underwent breast cancer stand as evidence of her 
unshakeable willpower. As a proud breast cancer survivor, Pat has 
shared her positivity, vibrance and fearlessness to all those around 
her. Her dedication and love for her family has created long lasting 
bonds with a marriage of over 41 years with her husband Markt Meyer and 
four children, Stephen, Stephanie, Shane, and Shavonne. Their close-
knit family made up of 10 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren have 
continued to serve as an important pillar in Pat and Markt's life, 
bringing them joy and fulfillment to their lives.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me and Missouri's Fifth 
Congressional District as we forever enshrine Pat's legacy and wish her 
the happiest of birthdays. On this special occasion, let us celebrate 
this milestone and Pat Danner's achievements throughout her 
distinguished career but most importantly, her impact as a lifelong 
friend, partner, mother and a proud Missourian.

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