[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 9 (Thursday, January 16, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E40]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          RECOGNIZING CATHERINE LOIS PLAFCAN'S 100TH BIRTHDAY

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                       HON. BRIAN K. FITZPATRICK

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, January 16, 2025

  Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mrs. 
Catherine Lois Plafcan, a remarkable constituent from my district, and 
to pay tribute to her on the celebration of her 100th birthday. It is a 
distinct honor to pay tribute to Mrs. Plafcan on this joyous occasion 
and to highlight the extraordinary life and contributions that endear 
her to so many in our community.
  Catherine was born and raised in West Philadelphia and graduated from 
West Philadelphia High School in May of 1944. During her time in high 
school, she saw her brother, cousins, and friends enter military 
service to fight in World War II. She attended business school once she 
graduated high school to work as a secretary at the Philadelphia Naval 
Home.
  Catherine met her husband John Plafcan playing bingo with friends in 
Mont Clare, Pennsylvania. They married on June 20, 1953, and were 
happily married for 52 years before John lost his battle with ALS. They 
had 3 children: Mark, John, and Tina.
  Catherine enjoyed sketching landscapes and clothing. She loved to 
design dresses and coats and dreamed of becoming a fashion designer. 
Throughout her 100 years, Catherine has exemplified a spirit of 
resilience, generosity and dedication and has been an integral member 
of our community. Catherine truly embodies the spirit of family. She 
has spent her life putting her family first and her unwavering 
dedication to her children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, grandnieces 
and grandnephews is noticed by all who know her. Catherine's commitment 
to her family is evident in the countless memories she has helped 
create, and she continues to inspire those around her with her words of 
wisdom and enduring love.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my esteemed colleagues in the U.S. House of 
Representatives to please join me in extending our heartfelt 
congratulations, sincere well-wishes, and all of God's Blessings to 
Catherine Lois Plafcan on the celebration of her 100th birthday.

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