[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 107 (Wednesday, June 28, 1995)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1352] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] NOTING THE PASSING OF FORMER STATE REPRESENTATIVE IKE THOMPSON ______ HON. LOUIS STOKES of ohio in the house of representatives Wednesday, June 28, 1995 Mr. STOKES. Mr. Speaker, I am saddened to announce the passing of a former member of the Ohio State House of Representatives. On June 25, 1995, the Cleveland community mourned the death of Isaiah ``Ike'' Thompson. For 20 years, Ike Thompson represented Cleveland's east side in the Ohio Legislature. His district included portions of Glenville, Euclid, Bratenahl, and East Cleveland. The passing of Ike Thompson brings to a close a distinguished career of public service. I join members of the Cleveland community, Ike's family and colleagues in mourning the loss of a talented legislator and a good friend. I rise today to reflect upon the life of Ike Thompson and to share with my colleagues some information regarding his political career. Mr. Speaker, Ike Thompson was born in Birmingham, AL, and moved to Cleveland during his early childhood. He attended Central High School and Cleveland State University. In 1942, Ike became a factory worker for the Weatherhead Co. He began his political career when he became a precinct committeeman in 1963. Ike also later served as a Democratic ward leader. In 1970, Ike Thompson was elected to the State House of Representatives. He would spent the next 20 years serving his constituents in that legislative body. It was a job which he took very seriously. During his first year in the legislature, Ike introduced a bill making it illegal for poll watchers to wear police uniforms and carry guns. He based his initiative on the fact that off-duty policemen entering voting places were intimidating and discouraging potential voters. Over the years, Ike would note that this was the most important legislation that he ever sponsored because it gave people the right to vote without fear. During his first term, Ike Thompson was named by his colleagues as the Number One Rookie Legislator, an honor in which he took great pride. Throughout his political career, Ike Thompson earned a reputation for his strong legislative efforts on behalf of consumers. He was best known for getting the Ohio Legislature to approve the ``lemon law,'' which protects new car buyers from manufacturing defects. It is praised as one of the strongest such laws in the country. During his tenure in office, Ike was also chosen to serve as executive vice president of the Black Elected Democrats of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, Ike Thompson retired from the State legislature in 1990, following 20 years of service to the Greater Cleveland area. We mourn the recent passing of our friend, Ike Thompson. He will always be remembered for his dedication and commitment to public service. As we remember Ike Thompson, we pay tribute to a distinguished legislator who has earned a special place in our State's political history. I offer my condolences to Ike's family, including his wife of 60 years, Lodeamer, and his daughter, Arwilda Storey. I ask that my colleagues join me in paying tribute to a gifted public servant, Ike Thompson. ____________________