On the recordMay 17, 2012
Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of former South Dakota Congressman and U.S. Senator Jim Abdnor, who passed away yesterday at the age of 89. Jim Abdnor dedicated his life to serving the State of South Dakota and our country in whatever capacity he was serving. As Lieutenant Governor, as Congressman, U.S. Senator, even administrator of the United States Small Business Administration, Jim was a man who constantly put others first. South Dakotans who knew him remember Jim as an incredibly decent man who worked tirelessly for the State that he loved. In my personal interactions with Jim, I was always impressed by what a man of humility and integrity he was. A born and raised South Dakotan, he left a legacy of hard work, commitment, and selfless sacrifice that every resident of the Rushmore State can be proud of. I ask the South Dakotans and all those who knew him personally or of his legacy to keep his family and loved ones in their thoughts and prayers. ____________________
