May 19, 2020 - Issue: Vol. 166, No. 94 — Daily Edition116th Congress (2019 - 2020) - 2nd Session

[Page S2501]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     TRIBUTE TO WILLIAM GODMAN, JR.

 Mr. CRAMER. Mr. President, I want to honor a very special 
North Dakota resident who is turning 100 years old on May 26. William 
Godman, Jr., now resides at the Haaland Estates Assisted Living Center 
in Rugby, ND, after living on the family farm north of the community of 
Churchs Ferry for 98 and a half years. To say this lifelong farmer is 
one of North Dakota's great stewards of the land would not be an 
understatement. At his father's urging, he did not leave the farm to 
fight in World War II because his brother had enlisted. He stayed 
behind to raise the food to feed a hungry nation and world during those 
difficult years. On his farm, William has raised crops including wheat, 
barley, flax, corn, and canola.
  Throughout the decades of his life across the past century, William 
has experienced great moments in North Dakota's history. He and his 
late wife, Elaine, raised five children and instilled in them the 
necessity of hard work and self reliance. He gave back to his community 
in many ways, including being a longtime 4-H leader, church volunteer, 
and Men's Club member. Although his birthday will not bring together as 
planned all his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, I 
hope he will be able to celebrate this great milestone with friends and 
family at other opportunities throughout the year.
  North Dakota is home to more than 200 centenarians, and we consider 
them among our most treasured residents. Their pioneer spirit, dignity, 
and hard work have brought them through many challenges and personal 
achievements. On behalf of all North Dakotans, I wish William a happy 
100th birthday and hope this is the start of a year filled with 
happiness and joy.

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