[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 97 (Friday, June 6, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E539]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 RECOGNIZING GERALD ``JERRY'' DANFORTH

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. TONY WIED

                              of wisconsin

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, June 6, 2025

  Mr. WIED. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of 
Gerald ``Jerry'' Danforth, a distinguished Tribal leader, a decorated 
Navy veteran, and a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, who 
passed away on the morning of June 1, 2025, at the age of 78.
  Born on December 24, 1946, in Oneida, Wisconsin, to Leslie and Eva 
Schuyler Danforth, Jerry devoted his life to service--first to his 
country, and then to his people. He served honorably in the United 
States Navy for over three decades, retiring in 1994 with the esteemed 
rank of Force Master Chief, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Atlantic Fleet. 
He was a veteran of both the Vietnam War and Desert Storm, embodying 
courage, commitment, and leadership throughout his military career.
  Jerry brought the same conviction and discipline to his leadership 
within the Oneida Nation. He was elected Chairman of the Oneida 
Business Committee in 1995 and again in 2005, where he advocated 
tirelessly for policies that advanced Indian gaming, economic 
development, healthcare, higher education, and the preservation of the 
Oneida language. His long-term vision was to build a strong, 
sustainable economy not solely reliant on gaming and to enhance 
communication between tribal governance and the General Tribal Council.
  A public servant in every sense, Jerry also served his Nation as a 
judge on the Oneida Judiciary, where his wisdom, fairness, and devotion 
to justice left a lasting impact.
  Beyond his public service, Jerry was a man of deep personal warmth 
and abiding family values. He is survived by his loving wife, Pamela 
Johns Danforth, and their children Paul Jameson (Virna), Steve Jameson 
(Cathy), Tanya Wood (Steve), Gerald Danforth Jr. (Chitra), Patrick 
Danforth, and stepson Keith Bimosae Johns Herman. He is also survived 
by his brother James Danforth (Joanne), sister Joanne Smith (late Bruce 
Smith), and many grandchildren who brought him great joy. He was 
preceded in death by his son Thomas Danforth and his parents.
  Jerry lived a life rich with passion and purpose--he loved fishing, 
golf, entertaining with his prized green egg grill, red wine, 
chocolate, and pie. He cherished winters spent in South Padre Island 
with Pam and was happiest when surrounded by family and friends.
  Mr. Speaker, Gerald ``Jerry'' Danforth's life was defined by service, 
leadership, and love. He exemplified the highest ideals of his people 
and of this Nation. His legacy will endure in the lives he touched, the 
institutions he shaped, and the Nation he served so faithfully. I offer 
my deepest condolences to his family, his community, and the entire 
Oneida nation. May his memory be a blessing.

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