[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 145 (1999), Part 12]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 17210]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



                       IN MEMORY OF JACK DEMPSEY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 21, 1999

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I now wish 
to recognize Mr. Jack Dempsey of Manassa, CO. For his great success in 
boxing, his loyalty, and love of Colorado, I would like to honor him 
and his memory which continues to survive.
  Born in June 1895, in Manassa, CO, Jack Dempsey entered the world as 
William Harrison Dempsey. His parents were poor and humble farmers and 
pioneers. Jack was one of 11 children, and from the beginning he was a 
mama's boy. Believing that his mother deserved a better life, and 
determining to provide her with the best, Jack Dempsey struck out on 
his own at an early age.
  After traveling to various mining towns throughout Colorado and 
California, Jack began fighting at age 17. He began his professional 
career as a boxer in 1914 and won the nickname, ``Manassa Mauler'' 
changing his name to reflect the Irish legend, Jack Dempsey. Though 
small in stature, 6'1'' and 180 pounds, Jack took those he fought by 
surprise. In 1919, Jack Dempsey won the Heavyweight Boxing Title which 
he held until 1926 when he lost the title to Gene Tunney.
  In May 1983, Jack Dempsey passed away, a legend to always be 
remembered. Though Jack will be greatly remembered for his incredible 
boxing career, he will also be remembered for his love and dedication 
to his mother and his courage and strength. For his hard work, 
determination, success, and remarkable life, I wish to pay tribute to 
Mr. Jack Dempsey as the bronze statue of Mr. Dempsey is dedicated to 
Cecilia Dempsey, Jack's mother. I am grateful for the example Jack 
Dempsey set and for the inspiration which he continues to provide.

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