Press Office November 7th, 2007

I would like to thank the people of the Fifth Congressional District who have written, called, e-mailed and visited with me over the past weeks to express their condolences on the death of my husband, Congressman Paul Gillmor. During what has been the most trying time that our family has ever experienced, your words have brought great comfort to me and our children. Paul’s death has left me missing my best friend and our children missing their father, but as your sentiments tell, we know that we do not grieve alone.

I have read the kind and supportive letters from Paul’s constituents recounting the times he greeted them at Rotary lunches and county fairs, or helped them when their Social Security checks had not arrived. I have been touched by stories from current and former cadets whose lives were forever changed when Paul recommended them to attend our nation’s military academies. I have heard from ambassadors and presidents who have told me how important Paul’s service was to our nation’s relationships across the world. Indeed well wishes have come from all across the district, the state and the world from people who were touched by Paul’s life.

In the stories told across Ohio, Paul is being remembered as a man who was accessible to his constituents, interested in their situations, and who carried his office with honor. From his time as a junior state senator to his time as a senior congressman, Paul never changed; he remained an easygoing, soft-spoken servant of the people.

Paul had many great accomplishments in his political career, from leading the Ohio Senate to championing a bill in Congress which has created more than 85,000 jobs. But I know that Paul’s greatest accomplishment cannot be easily measured, for he took the most satisfaction from furthering the lives of his constituents.

Paul will forever be missed as will his shining example of bipartisanship and quiet effectiveness. He chose public life for the opportunity to improve his constituents’ lives, not for self-gain, or self-promotion. Thank you for being a part of Paul’s life and bringing our family peace during this difficult time.

Karen L. Gillmor
Tiffin, Ohio

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