Commemorating the Life of Henry Jo Von Tungeln

COMMEMORATING THE LIFE OF HENRY JO VON TUNGELN-HON. FRANK D. LUCAS (Extensions of Remarks - March 11, 2004)

HON. FRANK D. LUCAS
OF OKLAHOMA
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
THURSDAY, MARCH 11, 2004

Mr. LUCAS of Oklahoma. Mr. Speaker, today I wish to remember and honor an outstanding citizen, Henry Jo Von Tungeln from Calumet, Oklahoma, who passed away on February 28th.

Henry Jo was born on May 13, 1931 southwest of El Reno, Oklahoma. He was a fourth generation farmer and rancher in Canadian County. He was known throughout his community and the State for his commitment to community service and to the agriculture industry.

Henry Jo was a tireless champion of agriculture, which was exemplified through his dedication to numerous agriculture organizations. He was active in the Oklahoma Farm Bureau, where he served as Vice President of The Oklahoma Farm Bureau State Board of Directors. He also served as the Canadian County Farm Bureau President for 45 years. He served 3 terms as Chairman of the Oklahoma Wheat Commission and was appointed by three Governors. He also served as Secretary, Vice Chairman and Chairman of the U.S. Wheat Associates. He served on the Dean's Advisory Committee for the Oklahoma State University Division of Agriculture. In 2000, Henry Jo received the OSU Master Agronomist award. He was elected to the Oklahoma Agriculture Hall of Fame in 2002. Henry Jo served on the Oklahoma Beef Council Board of Directors. He received the Oklahoma Farm Bureau Service Award. Henry Jo served on the International Trade Commission. He was elected Progressive Farmer Man of the Year in 2001. He also received the Agriculture Ambassador Award from Redlands Community College.

Perhaps Henry Jo was best known for opening his home to many of us for discussions about the things that would benefit his community and the agriculture industry, so that future generations could enjoy the same way of life that he so enjoyed. He welcomed many to his dinner table, including international groups who were visiting Oklahoma to learn more about our agricultural products. He was an amazing ambassador for our State.

Mr. Speaker, I join today with Henry Jo's family, friends, and community to honor his life and his commitment to his family, his community, and to the advancement of agriculture. He was an outstanding man and will truly be missed by all who knew him.

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