On the recordNovember 14, 2016
I join my fellow Ohioans and colleagues in recognizing the life and work of Steve LaTourette, a good friend and an outstanding public servant. Steve served nine terms in Congress. Though they say Washington changes you, he remained extremely thoughtful and completely authentic throughout his tenure. And regardless of the circumstances, Steve always did what he thought was the right thing. He came to Congress after serving as a public defender and Lake County prosecutor. He knew the law inside and out and could argue a point passionately, but he also had a great sense of humor. In fact, during his first term, he famously delivered a speech written by humorist Dave Barry on the House floor, poking fun at his chosen profession: ``The vast majority of lawyers . . .'' he read ``. . . are responsible professionals as well as, in many ways, human beings.'' Steve LaTourette was a great human being. Though Cancer took him away from us way too soon, he leaves a legacy of service that has had a tremendous impact on his family, his colleagues, and especially, for Northeast Ohio. My thoughts and prayers are with Jennifer and the entire LaTourette family. I know Steve was looking down proudly as his daughter Sarah was elected to a leadership position in the Ohio House of Representatives this month. There is no question that Steve lives on through his children and through each one of us who had the pleasure of knowing and working with him.
