[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 161 (2015), Part 12]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 16455]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                      HONORING RICHARD K. DONAHUE

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. NIKI TSONGAS

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 22, 2015

  Ms. TSONGAS. Mr. Speaker, the City of Lowell, Massachusetts is well-
known for its historic contributions to this nation, from its roots in 
the founding of modern industry, to world-renown authors and artists, 
to public officials who helped shape the national conversation. Lowell 
recently lost one of those titanic figures with the passing of Richard 
K. Donahue.
  Richard Donahue will be remembered across Massachusetts and the 
country for his expertise and leadership in the legal world, as well as 
his acumen and achievements in politics, policy and business.
  A valued citizen of Lowell, his professional career existed on the 
national stage, through his storied involvement in the successful 
campaign of President John F. Kennedy, his tenure as a confidant and 
advisor at the Kennedy White House, as a highly-regarded and nationally 
respected lawyer, and as President of NIKE, a major worldwide company. 
He was an exemplary role model for young Lowellians coming of age in 
the 60s and 70s, setting a standard of excellence and accomplishment 
that he made seem quite easy.
  As much as Dick was a national figure, he never lost touch with his 
home city. He remained deeply committed to Lowell throughout his entire 
life. Dick represented the fighting spirit and dedication to community 
that is Lowell's trademark. He always had the community's best 
interests at heart.
  His wife, Nancy, the founder of Merrimack Repertory Theater has been 
its guiding light from its inception. Dick and Nancy's tremendous 
philanthropic support to the theater and across the region reflected 
their unflagging generosity and willingness to share the fruits of a 
very successful life and devote it to the best interests of the City of 
Lowell.
  Dick also understood that the City and its University rise and fall 
together, and devoted himself to being a leader at the University of 
Massachusetts Lowell, helping to position that institution for future 
success.
  Even in recent years, when Dick's health was not good, you'd still 
see him attend events he thought were important. It reflected his 
ongoing affection and love for his city and the many good things that 
happen here.
  Dick Donahue was a remarkable Lowellian. I know I'm not alone when I 
say thank you to him for his endless dedication to his country and his 
city; and to his wife and family for sharing him with us. He will be 
greatly missed, but his legacy will be felt across this region for 
generations to come.

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