RECOGNIZING CATHERINE LOIS PLAFCAN'S 100TH BIRTHDAY

RECOGNIZING CATHERINE LOIS PLAFCAN'S 100TH BIRTHDAY

Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 9 (Thursday, January 16, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 9 (Thursday, January 16, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E40] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING CATHERINE LOIS PLAFCAN'S 100TH BIRTHDAY ______ HON. BRIAN K. FITZPATRICK of pennsylvania in the house of representatives Thursday, January 16, 2025 Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mrs. Catherine Lois Plafcan, a remarkable constituent from my district, and to pay tribute to her on the celebration of her 100th birthday. It is a distinct honor to pay tribute to Mrs. Plafcan on this joyous occasion and to highlight the extraordinary life and contributions that endear her to so many in our community. Catherine was born and raised in West Philadelphia and graduated from West Philadelphia High School in May of 1944. During her time in high school, she saw her brother, cousins, and friends enter military service to fight in World War II. She attended business school once she graduated high school to work as a secretary at the Philadelphia Naval Home. Catherine met her husband John Plafcan playing bingo with friends in Mont Clare, Pennsylvania. They married on June 20, 1953, and were happily married for 52 years before John lost his battle with ALS. They had 3 children: Mark, John, and Tina. Catherine enjoyed sketching landscapes and clothing. She loved to design dresses and coats and dreamed of becoming a fashion designer. Throughout her 100 years, Catherine has exemplified a spirit of resilience, generosity and dedication and has been an integral member of our community. Catherine truly embodies the spirit of family. She has spent her life putting her family first and her unwavering dedication to her children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews is noticed by all who know her. Catherine's commitment to her family is evident in the countless memories she has helped create, and she continues to inspire those around her with her words of wisdom and enduring love. Mr. Speaker, I ask my esteemed colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to please join me in extending our heartfelt congratulations, sincere well-wishes, and all of God's Blessings to Catherine Lois Plafcan on the celebration of her 100th birthday. ____________________