[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 145 (1999), Part 12]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages 17583-17584]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



                  IN MEMORY OF THE LATE WILLARD MUNGER

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. BILL LUTHER

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 22, 1999

  Mr. LUTHER. Mr. Speaker, although liver cancer took him from us at 
age 88, Willard Munger will not merely go down in history as the 
longest serving member of the Minnesota House of Representatives. Far 
more importantly, he will be remembered forever as ``Mr. Environment.''
  In 1954, Willard Munger began his career in the Minnesota House where 
he remained the leading contributor to Minnesota's environmental 
legislation for four decades. Through his service and dedication to the 
people of Minnesota, Willard Munger truly exemplified what it means to 
be a public servant.
  Willard Munger's contributions were made through his deep concern for 
the lives of future generations he will never know. His tireless 
advocacy for environmental protection, stewardship of our resources, 
and sustainability was often confrontational and controversial. But 
this is truly a badge of honor considering the causes he championed. 
Often his heroic efforts went without any reward whatsoever as he took 
on powerful vested interests on behalf of the public interest.
  It was Willard Munger's vision of ensuring a pristine environment for 
future generations that fueled his passion. His legacy will endure for 
years to come, especially for those who have the opportunity to travel 
the almost 70 miles of biking trails stretching from Duluth to 
Hinckley, Minnesota, aptly named the ``Willard Munger Trail.''

[[Page 17584]]

  As a friend and mentor to me and others, Willard Munger will be 
missed, but he will never be forgotten. His accomplishments are far too 
great. His life reminds all of us of the simple truth that anything is 
possible when one truly stands up for one's beliefs. Thank you, Mr. 
Environment, for making the world a better place for generations to 
come.

                          ____________________