[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 156 (2010), Part 13]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages 18227-18228]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                    TRIBUTE TO WALTER J. BECKERT III

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. DIANA DeGETTE

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, November 29, 2010

  Ms. DeGETTE. Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize the wonderful 
life and exceptional accomplishments of a remarkable man. This 
distinguished citizen possessed an impressive record of civic 
leadership and invaluable service. His achievements in making our city 
and state a better place merit our recognition and gratitude. It is to 
commend this eminent citizen that I rise to honor Walter ``Uncle Walt'' 
Beckert III.
  Walt Beckert, ``Uncle Walt'' to all, devoted his time, skill and 
energy to making our state and our community a better place. Walt 
achieved a Masters in Bilingual Education, Curriculum Development and 
Administration from the University of Colorado. He served in the Peace 
Corps where he worked in Ecuador on bilingual education and curriculum 
development.
  Walt was a labor leader and political activist who was in the 
vanguard of those dedicated to economic and social justice. As an AFL-
CIO Colorado executive board member, former president of AFSCME Council 
76, and Vice President of local 158; Walt was a union man through and 
through. Anyone who knew him was impressed by his unending spirit, 
drive and determination. Walt was an example of a true union leader in 
every sense of the term. Walt cared about all working people, not just 
those of his organization. His dedication and commitment to the labor 
movement was without question.
  As a long time employee of the City and County of Denver as Director 
of Denver's Safe City Office, Walt worked to prevent violence by and 
against youth. His work allowed him to witness families that have 
fallen on hard times, whether by drugs, illness, or victimization. 
These experiences gave him a unique

[[Page 18228]]

perspective in helping youth and were a motivating factor in his 
community service interests. These interests lead him to be appointed 
to the Governor's Commission on Community Service.
  Walt was an invaluable member of any committee or endeavor. From 
labor union, to political party to the St. Patrick's Day Parade 
committee, he was always there with a smile and a hug and an attitude 
that made everyone want to work harder. He made every job look easy and 
fun, and with Uncle Walt it was.
  Our thoughts and our prayers are with his loved ones. Please join me 
in celebrating the life of Walt Beckert, a man who inspired everyone he 
met by his actions and deeds to make the world a better place for 
everyone.

                          ____________________