[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 146 (2000), Part 16]
[Senate]
[Page 23129]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]


[[Page 23129]]

                 A TRIBUTE TO SPECIAL AGENT TOM LAPISH

 Mr. ABRAHAM. Mr. President, during the 106th Congress, the 
Detroit Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation lost two of 
its most dedicated agents to battles with cancer. Both were respected 
not only for their professional accomplishments, but also for the 
manner in which they conducted themselves outside of their work, as 
each contributed considerably to the Detroit community. I rise today in 
honor and in memory of Special Agent Tom Lapish, one of these two men.
  Special Agent Lapish entered on duty with the FBI in 1976. After a 
brief stay in Kansas City, he was assigned to the Detroit Field Office. 
In Detroit, he developed an expertise in white collar crime 
investigations, and was regarded as one of the Bureau's top agents in 
that arena. With a background in accounting, he thrived on the 
protracted, intricate nature of investigating complex fraud matters, 
and was formally commended for his investigative accomplishments on 
several occasions.
  Not surprisingly, Special Agent Lapish was known for his attention to 
detail. He was also known for his high ethical standards. He stood for 
the ideals of the FBI motto--Fidelity, Bravery and Integrity--at all 
times. Even as his illness made him weak, he would contemplate going to 
the office to work on cases he had been assigned. In addition, he was 
very active within his church, helping to promote the Christian 
lifestyle which he believed so deeply in.
  Special Agent Lapish was also an extremely gifted athlete, and his 
passion for soccer became legendary within the Detroit community. He 
served as the coach for nearly 30 soccer teams, and in this capacity 
mentored hundreds of young individuals. His impact on them was seen at 
his memorial service, which was crowded with soccer players paying 
final respects to their favorite coach. It can also physically be seen 
in the Detroit area, where a soccer field was posthumously named in his 
honor.
  Special Agent Lapish passed away on May 18, 2000 at the age of 50. He 
is survived by his wife, Mary, and two sons, Matthew and Andrew.
  The Federal Bureau of Investigation works hard to ensure that its 
agents set a strong moral example for the people they are entrusted to 
protect. There is no question that Special Agent Lapish was a leader in 
this regard. Dedicated to his Nation, his agency, his family and his 
faith, he was a role model in the Detroit community, and he will be 
deeply missed.

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