Darrell Issa: “I rise tonight to remember the life and work of former Congressman Wayne Owens. I did not know Wayne when he was a…”

“I rise tonight to remember the life and work of former Congressman Wayne Owens. I did not know Wayne when he was a member of this body: I met him two years ago when he came to my office asking me to support the Middle East peace process. Wayne's tireless commitment to Middle East peace, his willingness to reach across party lines, to go anywhere, and to talk to anyone, has been a source of inspiration to all who believe that Arabs and Israelis will one day live together in peace and security. He was a study in moderation and tolerance, a compassionate man who believed that all people deserve to be treated with respect and dignity. Wayne was also a true patriot. He loved his country and he believed that our values of freedom, prosperity, and tolerance should be shared with the entire world, particularly the Middle East. But what makes this moment most painful for me is that Wayne Owens was my friend. He was a true champion of peace, and he lived and died serving humanity. He will be missed dearly.”