Joe Manchin: “before I speak today about the bill before us, I want to commemorate the life of a dear friend and a true West…”

“before I speak today about the bill before us, I want to commemorate the life of a dear friend and a true West Virginian, Bill Stewart. Bill was taken from us 2 days ago at the age of 59, but he left behind a lifetime of memories and love for our State. Bill Stewart was a proud West Virginian in every sense of the word, and he was the best cheerleader this State ever had. Whether it was playing ball at Fairmont State--where I first met him--or coaching West Virginia University to a Fiesta Bowl win--where he took an underdog team to a thrilling victory--you never had to worry about Bill's enthusiasm; he had enough for all of us. In fact, you were either a friend of Bill Stewart's or he hadn't met you yet. Bill was raised in New Martinsville and was a West Virginian through- and- through. Countless young men thrived under his coaching, but he was also truly dedicated to his family--his wife Karen and his son Blaine. I hope Karen and Blaine know just how much Bill meant to the people of our State, how much we loved him and how much we all will miss him. My wife Gayle and I will keep Bill's entire family in our thoughts and prayers. ____________________”