Recognizing Mr. William Thomas Chartrand

Floor Speech

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Mr. VALADAO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Mr. William Thomas Chartrand, who tragically passed away on October 3, 2023. at the age of 82.

Mr. Chartrand was born in Troy, New York to Ernest and Eva Chartrand. He was the middle of five children. From an early age, he learned the values of hard work and perseverance, spending his youth working on a farm in upstate New York. Mr. Chartrand joined the U.S. Navy shortly after high school, where he served as a jet engine mechanic. Mr. Chartrand retired having achieved the rank of Chief Petty Officer. Some of his fondest memories were from his time spent as a navigator on an A-3 Skywarrior Aircraft. During his more than twenty years of service, he developed lifelong friendships with his fellow officers, and kept in close contact with them throughout his life.

After retiring from the Navy, Mr. Chartrand moved to Hanford, where he attended College of the Sequoias and earned his associate of arts degree. He was later hired by Sears, Roebuck and Co., and received training in appliance repair in Los Angeles and Chicago. After a long career with the company, Mr. Chartrand started his own appliance repair business in Hanford. Mr. Chartrand was passionate about helping his friends and family with their appliances and continued to lend a helping hand in his retirement. This past May, Mr. Chartrand and his wife. Velma, celebrated 36 years of marriage, Together, they devoted themselves to their Christian faith. Mr. Chartrand served on the Diaconate for First Baptist Hanford in his later years. He is remembered by his loved ones and members of the Hanford community for his kind spirit and compassion for everyone he crossed paths with.

Mr. Speaker, I ask all my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me in honoring the incredible life of Mr. William Thomas Chartrand. His service to our country, commitment to his family, and dedication to the Central Valley community will be felt for generations to come. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.

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