[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 150 (2004), Part 4]
[Senate]
[Page 5477]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




               HONORING THE LIFE OF SENATOR CHARLES MEEKS

 Mr. BAYH. Mr. President, I rise today to honor the life of my 
fellow Hoosier, State Senator Charles ``Bud'' Meeks, who passed away on 
March 22. Senator Meeks dedicated his life to serving his country and 
our home State of Indiana, setting an example of personal conviction 
and political vigor throughout his 6 years as State senator.
   Bud Meeks grew up in Fort Wayne, IN. He graduated from Central High 
School in 1954 and enlisted in the U.S. Navy. After serving 4 years in 
the Navy, Senator Meeks returned home to Fort Wayne where he began his 
career in public service as a deputy at the Allen County jail. Meeks 
retired from the Sheriff's Department after 28 years of dedicated 
service, including two terms as Allen County Sheriff. He then moved to 
Washington, DC, where he was the executive director of the National 
Sheriff's Association for 8 years. Upon his final return to Indiana, 
Meeks ran a successful campaign, demonstrating a work ethic on the 
campaign trail that is remembered by Hoosiers still today. In 1998, 
Senator Meeks was elected to the Indiana State Senate to represent 
Indiana's 14th Senate District.
   While serving as Senator, Meeks most recently played a crucial role 
in championing the current proposal to consolidate Allen County 
government. But among his colleagues, Meeks was known above all else 
for his love of children. While in the Senate, Meeks would frequently 
devote a significant amount of time to young students, answering 
questions and discussing government. His focus on Indiana's youth is a 
testament to Meeks' kindness of heart and clear understanding of the 
importance of prioritizing the children who will one day be running our 
great Nation.
   In everything he did, Senator Meeks brought with him an inspiring 
energy and passion, setting a positive example for his friends, 
colleagues, and constituents to follow. He was always ready to work 
diligently for the causes he cared for so deeply, and it was his 
steadfast belief in community involvement that earned him the 
unwavering admiration of Hoosiers across Indiana.
   Meeks was a committed father and public servant. The sense of loss 
to all those who knew Senator Meeks is tremendous. He is survived by 
his wife, Marjorie; son, Brian, brothers Bob and Fred; and three 
grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Brenda Sue and 
another son, David.
   It is my honor to enter the name of Senator Charles ``Bud'' Meeks 
into the Congressional Record.

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