[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 159 (2013), Part 11]
[Senate]
[Page 16764]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO WILBUR FAISS

 Mr. HELLER. Mr. President, today I wish to recognize a true 
Nevadan, humble public servant, and dedicated family man, Wilbur Faiss. 
Believed to have been the Nation's oldest-living legislator, Mr. 
Faiss's passing is a great loss and his commitment to serving the 
Silver State will never be forgotten.
  Representing Las Vegas, Mr. Faiss served 2 terms in the Senate from 
1976 to 1984. During his time in the Legislature, he authored two 
important laws, including one allowing pharmacists to substitute 
affordable, generic brands in place of name brand drugs, and another to 
allow seniors to access State parks and campgrounds for free. Mr. Faiss 
was also a strong advocate for the Equal Rights Amendment in 1977 and 
has professed that voting in support of that piece of legislation was 
one of the proudest moments of his life.
  On his 100th birthday, Mr. Faiss lent advice from his experience in 
the Senate, stressing the importance of compromise and a positive 
outlook, whether in your professional or personal life. It is clear 
that he practiced these sensibilities in the Senate and at home. His 
marriage of 79 years to his late wife, Theresa, is a testament to this 
philosophy. In 2012, he and Theresa were recognized as one of the 
longest married couples in the U.S.
  The citizens of the Silver State were fortunate that such a dedicated 
and passionate individual called Nevada home. Mr. Faiss serves as an 
example for others who hold the role of public office. My thoughts and 
prayers go out to his three sons, six grandchildren, five-great 
grandchildren, and four great-great grandchildren. Today, I would ask 
my colleagues to join me in remembering the life of a devoted Nevadan 
and honoring his accomplishments.

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