James Oberstar: “I rise to pay tribute to my late father-in-law, Charles I. Denechaud, Jr., whose life ebbed away last Saturday, July 24.…”

“I rise to pay tribute to my late father-in-law, Charles I. Denechaud, Jr., whose life ebbed away last Saturday, July 24. He was taken from his loved ones after nearly 3 years of a silent struggle against a stroke that disabled him and in the end robbed his most precious treasure, the ability to speak to his dear wife. His remarkable life in the law and his extraordinary service to his fellow New Orleaneans, his family, and the Catholic Church was summed up in a comprehensive account in the New Orleans Times Picayune of Sunday, July 25, which I submit for the Record. I also include in the Record at this point the eulogy of my wife, Jean K. Oberstar, my own remarks. I want to cite the splendid eulogy offered, though not available in printed version, by Jean's brother-in-law, Tommy Boggs, in warm and touching tribute to a man whose exemplary life will inspire all of us to so live our lives. Charles I. Denechaud, Jr. Eulogy of Hon. James L. Oberstar, M.C. As we left the restaurant a few years ago, I had a clever idea: "Us older guys should walk together," I said, taking his arm, "and you can help steady me, I've got a bad hip." Charles quickly saw through the ruse: "It's hell to get old, Jim; the first thing to go are the legs. Take care of your legs. Now, let me take your arm, so I don't stumble on something." He closed with that warm twinkle in his eyes, and the gentle, upbeat, pursed smile which is the image I shall forever harbor and always cherish.”