September 10, 2019 - Issue: Vol. 165, No. 144 — Daily Edition116th Congress (2019 - 2020) - 1st Session

[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1118-E1119]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                HONORING THE LIFE OF DONALD FRANCIS WOOD

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JIM BANKS

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 10, 2019

  Mr. BANKS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life of Mr. 
Donald Francis Wood; a life marked by grace, humility and patriotism. 
Don was an accomplished Hoosier, father, businessman, and patriot.

[[Page E1119]]

  Born in the Midwest, and a native of Des Moines, Iowa, Don received a 
degree from Drake University and later an honorary degree from Ivy Tech 
Community College in Fort Wayne. Don's patriotism inspired him to 
enlist in the military, which led him overseas where he fought in the 
Korean War. Don reached the rank of corporal before receiving an 
honorable discharge.
  After his service in the Army, Don worked in automobile 
manufacturing, as a journeyman toolmaker and later as a salesman. After 
several years in auto-manufacturing sales, Don, with his sons, opened 
their own manufacturing company, 80/20 manufacturing. The largest T-
slotted aluminum building system in the United States, the company 
employs more than 400 workers in my hometown of Columbia City, Indiana.
  Don saw his success as-a blessing, but also a responsibility. He 
created the Donald F. Wood and Darlene M. Richardson Foundation with 
his wife, and started the 80/20 Foundation Trust, both dedicated to 
helping those in need. Don was willing to give his time, as well as his 
money, to enhance Northeast Indiana's community. A life-long music 
lover, he was a member of the board of the Fort Wayne Philharmonic, as 
well as the Fluid Power society.
  At his core, Don was a family man. He had three sons and a daughter, 
two of whom raised families in Fort Wayne.
  Madam Speaker, Don was the type of father, and leader, that embodies 
the values that make the United States and Indiana so special. His 
death has struck us a great loss; only because he contributed so much 
in life--to this country, to our state, and to his family.

                          ____________________