The publication is reproduced in full below:
HONORING THE LIFE OF JIM LEYSER
______
HON. JIM COSTA
of california
in the house of representatives
Thursday, December 9, 2021
Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of my good friend, veteran, Jim Leyser, who passed away on November 17, 2021. Jim was well known in the Central Valley and was actively involved in the community, volunteering his time for many causes. Jim was a father, husband, loyal friend, and veteran.
Jim was born August 8, 1946 and was adopted in Hawaii to Maurice and Myrtle Leyser. Maurice, was a career navy submariner and was stationed on the submarine base of Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. As Jim got older, Jim felt the need to join the United States Marine Corps. In 1968, he enlisted and got out in 1976. During that time, Jim was part of the Crash Fire and Rescue in the Philippines and Japan. In 1976, Jim got out of the Marine Corps as a sergeant.
After serving in the Marine Corps, Jim met the love of his life, Mary. On April 24, 1981, they were married and started a family together. Jim worked at the Veteran Affairs Hospital in the specimen lab. He was part of the Marine Corps League as well as Commandant for Detachment-14 and was in the American Legion Charlie Waters Post 4, previously in Post 147. Jim participated on the K9 awards board committee and was State President for the American Legion for 2013-
2014. He also assisted the commander of the district 14 on American Legion Posts meetings, and so much more.
Jim was often seen during Christmas volunteering for Toys-for-Tots; celebrating the Marine Corps Birthday at the ball every year and helping bartend for veteran events with the Marine Corps League. He made sure to be included in awareness events like the Suicide Awareness Ride, the annual Spaghetti Dinner fundraisers, and being with his American Legion Riders Chapter 509. He volunteered his time handing out blankets to veterans during the holidays and participated in many funeral ceremonies in the Honor Guard, specifically during the pandemic. Mary was always by his side at the events, with a smile on her face and chatting with veterans and their families. They were both friendly and helpful to everyone and ready to assist when needed.
Jim is survived by his wife of 40 years, Mary; his son; daughter-in-
law, his son-in-law, 12 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren. Jim's wonderful daughter, Vickie, passed away in 2020. He leaves behind many friends including his brothers and sisters of the Marine Corps.
Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me in celebrating the life of Jim Leyser. I join his family and friends in the veteran community in celebrating his life and continuous service to others.
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SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 167, No. 213
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