[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 156 (2010), Part 2] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page 2035] [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]RECOGNIZING THE SONDGEROTH'S 67TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY ______ HON. DARRELL E. ISSA of california in the house of representatives Thursday, February 25, 2010 Mr. ISSA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a special couple from Mendota, Illinois, Lester and Mary Rita Sondgeroth, on the celebration of their sixty-seventh wedding anniversary. The love and dedication required through 67 years of marriage is a shining example of what a bond as strong as theirs can achieve, and I commend them on all those special years together. This is truly a significant milestone and one that only a very few are fortunate enough to celebrate in their lifetime. Lester and Mary Rita Sondgeroth were united in marriage on February 10, 1943 at the Holy Cross Church in Mendota where the couple has made their home to this day. Throughout the years, the Sondgeroths were blessed with five children--the late Dean Sondgeroth, the late Dianna Neisess, Debra Peters, Dru Sondgeroth, and Denise Burnette. They now have the pleasure of spending time with their five grandchildren--Scott Peters, Adam Peters, Brandon Burnette, Austin Burnette, and lastly Ryan Peters who I am proud to say is an outstanding member of my District Office staff in Vista, California. A 67th wedding anniversary reminds us that marriage is not an instant achievement but a covenant that requires love, patience, and respect. Lester and Mary Rita Sondgeroth have perfected this commitment to each other and are truly blessed to have a strong marriage, their family, and a lifetime of memories. As they live each day by their wedding vows, they continue to inspire all who are fortunate to know them. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Lester and Mary Rita Sondgeroth on this momentous occasion and sending our best wishes for many more years of love and happiness. ____________________