Title: On the Loss of a Great American, Jeff Schrock
Date: 03/18/2004
Location: Washington, DC
Speech
ON THE LOSS OF A GREAT AMERICAN, JEFF SCHROCK -- (Extensions of Remarks - March 18, 2004)
SPEECH OF HON. SAM FARR OF CALIFORNIA
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
THURSDAY, MARCH 18, 2004
Mr. FARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to salute a great American: Jeff Schrock.
Jeff died last month after battling brain cancer. Sadly, he leaves behind a loving wife, Cass, and two doting children, Jenny and Max.
I pay tribute to him as a fallen hero. Why? Because this was a man who represented the best of what America is-a loving husband, a good father, a solid citizen. Jeff Schrock and all the "Jeff Schrocks" of the world are what makes this a great country, are the kind of person that forms the intricate fabric that binds us as a Nation, are the unsung heroes who serve as the massive middle class that exemplifies the American nature at its best.
I loved Jeff. He was as generous a soul as one could hope to meet. His love of the outdoors and business acumen came together in a well-known business that he owned and which became a beach-front institution in Monterey: Monterey Bay Kayaks. At his kayak shop he patiently taught people to explore and enjoy the ocean, up close and personal. And for someone like me, he rarely giggled when I squeezed into a full-body wet suit and ringed my waist with a rubber spray skirt. I will miss my friend, the gentleman with such aplomb and discretion!
It is sad to lose anyone so close. I want you to know how much I respected and admired Jeff and looked up to him. He was an American hero. He lived a life that bespoke the best of husbands and fathers everywhere. The dedication he showed to his family, the sense of community he exhibited in the way he ran his business, the daily comings-and-goings of Jeff Schrock, Everyman, is how we all ought to live our lives. Why? Because the end result is a life of integrity and honor, a life of quiet determination, and a life full of love. It is the hallmark of how the core principles of American life are manifested in our Nation. Jeff, in his way, knew this and reveled in it. He chose to be a leader for his family by showing compassion and generosity. He chose to be a leader by introducing his business associates to the wonders of economic profits through environmental preservation. He chose to be a leader by getting involved in community issues. He was a beacon for all of us, and those who follow his lead, will be part and parcel of a stronger America, as Jeff truly was.
Mr. Speaker, I miss my friend Jeff Schrock. I lament the death of the fellow who helped me squeeze into a kayak and who opened, so for many of us, an amazing Window to the wonders of Monterey Bay and our world's oceans. I share the grief of his wife and children. But above all, I honor the role model he was and will be for those he left behind.
END
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