[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 39 (Monday, April 7, 1997)] [Senate] [Page S2795] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] TRIBUTE TO GERALDINE DEFANTMr. LEVIN. Mr. President, I rise today to honor my good friend Geraldine DeFant, a visionary leader, who recently passed away. In her 79 years, she worked tirelessly to help others, especially her fellow citizens of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Her accomplishments have established her as a legend among Upper Peninsula labor, political, and social leaders. She came to Marquette County in 1949 to organize the employees of the H.W. Gossard factory in Ishpeming for the International Ladies Garment Workers Union. She guided the women employees of the factory through a landmark strike that energized the local labor movement and was the first strike in the Upper Peninsula at a plant with primarily women workers. The organization of this plant had wage implications for union plants throughout the Nation. In addition to organizing the union at this plant, she established a kitchen and strike fund for them and classes on labor history. This was only the beginning of her efforts to improve the lives of workers and their families in the area. Geri was also a longtime activist in the Democratic party, serving as district chair, and coordinating campaigns from the local to the national levels. One of her proudest achievements was serving as Upper Peninsula Representative for U.S. Senator Phil Hart, who was renowned as the ``conscience of the Senate.'' She continued her service in Senator Don Riegle's U.P. office. From 1982 to 1991 she served on the Marquette County Board of Commissioners where she fought for economic development, mental health and services for seniors. She served on the Michigan Women's Commission for 6 years, during which time she pioneered legislation that allowed the Friend of the Court's office to garnish wages for child support. Most of our Nation now has similar legislation. Geri was a founder and longtime board member of the Marquette Women's Center. She continued her interest in and support of labor issues and was inducted into the U.P. Labor Hall of Fame this past September for her many efforts. She was deeply committed to equality and justice. Geri was also a friend, mentor, and role-model to countless people over the years. Geri's family was always very important to her and a source of joy and pride. She was married to Probate Judge Michael DeFant from 1952 until his death. They had three children, David, Dan, and Miriam, who survive her. Her warmth, humor, and dedication will be greatly missed by those of us who had the privilege to know Geri. I know my Senate colleagues join me in honoring this exceptional woman. ____________________