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[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E493]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF ERNEST ``CHUCK'' AYALA
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HON. NANCY PELOSI
of california
in the house of representatives
Monday, April 29, 2019
Ms. PELOSI. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the
incredible life of a dear friend, Ernest ``Chuck'' Ayala. Chuck Ayala
was a visionary leader and entrepreneur who dedicated his life to
serving the people of San Francisco and our nation. His passing on
April 22, 2019 at the age of 94 is a profound official loss for the
countless San Franciscans whose lives he touched and a deep personal
loss for his many loving friends and family.
Chuck Ayala was a life-long San Franciscan whose deep faith compelled
him to honor the words of our patron saint, Saint Francis who said,
``Preach the gospel, sometimes use words.'' Whether serving in the Army
during World War II, directing the Catholic Youth Organization's Youth
Services or mentoring countless at-risk young people to put them on the
path toward a brighter future, Chuck lived his faith through action and
always looked for ways of giving back to the community he loved.
In 1973, Chuck was inspired by his mother's immigrant experience to
create the Centro Latino de San Francisco, a senior center dedicated to
feeding our city's seniors and providing the resources they need to
thrive. For over 46 years, Centro Latino has helped countless
underserved and underrepresented seniors receive a hot meal and find a
sense of community.
Since Chuck started Centro Latino, it has become a full-service
community center for over 2,500 low-income multi-ethnic seniors and
families. The center's education initiatives have helped new immigrants
learn English, apply for vital services and fulfill their American
Dreams by becoming citizens. In short, Centro Latino has done nothing
less than give thousands of San Franciscans a sense of dignity and
worth.
From city hall to the White House, Chuck never failed to make his
voice heard. It was an honor to nominate Chuck to the White House
Conference on Aging to ensure that our nation's leaders were listening
to the grassroots activists who are on the ground caring for our
seniors and their families.
For Chuck and the love of his life, his late wife, Bernice, their
greatest source of joy was family. Over their 56 years together, Chuck
and Bernice raised a beautiful family and created a legacy of service
and advocacy that will continue to improve the lives of San Franciscans
and all Americans for generations to come.
May it be a comfort to Chuck's daughter, Darlene, sons, Mike and Joe,
grandchildren and the entire Ayala family that Chuck and his beloved
Bernice have been reunited. May it also be a comfort that so many mourn
with and pray for them during this sad time.
____________________