WASHINGTON D.C. - U.S. Congressman Dan Boren Tuesday evening held a moment of silence in remembrance of Clem Rogers McSpadden in the U.S. House of Representatives, and delivered the following speech to honor his life:
“Madame Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of a true Oklahoma statesman.
Clem Rogers McSpadden passed away on Monday, July 7th, 2008 after a lengthy battle with cancer.
Clem was the great-nephew of Will Rogers, and served as a Member of the U.S. House from 1973 until 1975.
If you ask Oklahomans about Clem, they will tell you about how he helped them during his time in elected office, how they remember him announcing rodeo championships, or how he gave them some great advice about life.
Clem was also a highly respected Member of this Chamber. He was honored with being the first freshman Member ever to be appointed to the Rules Committee.
He also helped create the Rural Caucus which I am honored to be a member of today.
Clem will not just be remembered as a former Congressman or President Pro Tempore of the State Senate.
As those of us from Oklahoma know, Clem had a positive impact on his community, state, and nation in many ways – ranging from family to military service to rodeo to business, and to ranching.
In keeping with a proud family legacy, Clem represented Oklahoma values on a daily basis – hard work and personal responsibility.
This is truly what helped make him one of Oklahoma’s favorite sons – just like his great-uncle Will.
There are very few people who have been such a great role model to us all.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Donna and the entire McSpadden family.
Thousands of Oklahomans, and rodeo fans across the nation, share in the sadness of their loss.
For all of these reasons, I respectfully request you join me in a moment of silence to remember his legacy.
Thank You, Madame Speaker.”
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