[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 82 (Thursday, May 14, 2026)]
[House]
[Pages H3511-H3512]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        RECOGNIZING BOB LESSARD

  (Mr. STAUBER asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. STAUBER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with great admiration and 
pride to recognize former Minnesota State Senator Bob Lessard, better 
known across northern Minnesota as ``The Old Trapper'' as he celebrates 
his 95th birthday.
  Born in International Falls, Bob has long been a champion for the 
people and traditions of Minnesota. Over the course of his 26 years in 
the State senate, he never lost touch with the Northland. His work has 
left a lasting imprint on our State constitution, our natural 
resources, and the livelihoods of countless Minnesotans.
  Bob fought to protect the rights of our hunters and anglers, 
implementing a constitutional amendment guaranteeing them the right to 
hunt, fish, and trap.
  He was also the driving force behind the Upper Mississippi Headwaters 
Board, ensuring local control over the upper 400 miles of the river.

[[Page H3512]]

  Throughout his career, Bob championed legislation that strengthened 
mining, paper companies, and logging. He fought for the workers who 
make these industries possible and for the communities that rely on 
them.
  It would be hard to find another Minnesota State legislator who has 
done more for the Northland than ``The Old Trapper'' himself.
  As he reaches this milestone, we honor not only his longevity but his 
extraordinary service, his unwavering dedication, and the legacy he 
leaves for generations of Minnesotans.

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