Ann Wagner: “Today, I want to honor a legendary man, a loyal soldier in the battle for freedom in this great country--Chip Gerdes of…”

“Today, I want to honor a legendary man, a loyal soldier in the battle for freedom in this great country--Chip Gerdes of my neighboring State of Illinois. Chip suddenly passed away this morning in his home, where he was a loving father and a devoted husband. He was a loyal friend to me and to my family and was a faithful patriot to so many. Chip was the type of person we all strive to be in politics: he reached across all divides to bring people together for a common purpose. I know Chip is smiling down on all of us today, cracking a joke about how serious we are about a man who never missed an opportunity to lighten the mood--and who would always fire up the room. Chip Gerdes will be missed by many, but his memory and his fight will continue. We love you, Chip. We already miss you, and we will never stop fighting for what you devoted your life to defend: life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Rest easy, my friend. We've got it from here. ____________________”