[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 43 (Thursday, March 6, 2025)]
[House]
[Page H1024]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
{time} 1130
REMEMBERING LARRY GERSTNER
(Mr. TAYLOR asked and was given permission to address the House for 1
minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
Mr. TAYLOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember the life of Larry
Gerstner, an outstanding businessman who was well loved by his
community and spent his life in service to it.
Larry was born in Columbus, Ohio, and grew up on a small farm in
Hilliard. Earning a bachelor's degree in civil engineering from the
University of Cincinnati, Larry joined the Peace Corps in 1971 and
spent 3 years in Tonga constructing the main island's road and
country's first jet field.
Upon returning to the States, Larry was elected Hocking County
Engineer in 1976 and later served as a board member for the Hocking
Hills Tourism Association.
Larry created numerous businesses that grew Hocking County's tourism
industry, most known for the Columbus Washboard Company, the very last
maker of washboards in the United States. One of his incredible
washboards is displayed in my office for Ohioans to enjoy, similar to
this one that I hold in my hand today.
After an 18-year fight with cancer, with his devoted wife, Joyce, by
his side, Larry passed away in February of 2025. Larry will be dearly
missed in Hocking County and across Ohio, but the legacy of his life of
service will continue.
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