[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 6]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 7890]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                HONORING THE LIFE OF GILBERT GUY FRANCIS

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. THADDEUS G. McCOTTER

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                          Tuesday, May 6, 2008

  Mr. McCOTTER. Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor and acknowledge 
Gilbert Guy Francis upon the occasion of his 80th birthday.
  Gilbert Francis dedicated his life to selflessly serving our 
community and country. Following service in the Air Force, Mr. Francis 
graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Education and 
subsequently taught for 10 years at Southwestern High School in 
Detroit. Many happily remember his efforts as he found the time to 
teach typing and accounting to the continuing education school at night 
and the regular students during the day.
  Gil has many hobbies as well. He faithfully studies the genealogy of 
the Francis family, tracing their roots back to Wales. Gill also excels 
at stamp collecting, roller-skate dancing, and playing the piano. As 
well as being an expert keyboardist, Gil has along the way done much to 
further the study and appreciation level for pipe organs. Not the first 
book he has put pen to paper for, ``Michigan Pipe Organ Theaters'' is 
his latest anticipated forthcoming publication. He has distinguished 
himself serving as the Treasurer and then President of the Detroit 
Theater Organ Society for a number of successful years. These days, 
lucky listeners can happen upon the organ historian playing the pipe 
organ at the famed Redford Theatre for classic old films.
  Gilbert Francis is a man of integrity, devoted to his family, who has 
dedicated his life to his wife Penny, his two children Carl and Nancy, 
and their wonderful grand- and now great-grandchildren.
  Madam Speaker, for eighty years Gilbert Guy Francis has faithfully 
served his family and community. As he enters the next phase of his 
life, he continues a legacy of dedication, skill of craft, and 
dignified leadership. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in 
congratulating Gilbert upon this momentous day and recognizing his 
years of loyal service to our community and country.

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