Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Francis Rigdon Currie, a former long-time resident of Palo Alto who is celebrating his 90th birthday on July 19, 2020. He was born in Atlanta, Georgia, to Constance Berry Currie and Charles James Currie and he had one sibling, Charles James Currie, Jr.
Georgia born and bred, Rigdon retains the elegant accent and perfect manners he learned growing up in the South. A Georgia Tech and Harvard Business School graduate, Rigdon served our country in the Air Force for two years, and went on to lead a productive and adventure-filled life. His great career at Xerox was followed by a productive tenure as a venture capitalist, creating hundreds of well-paying jobs. Exceedingly generous with his time, resources and talent, he mentored countless career-seekers, leading them to positions that ideally suit them. His generosity extended to many non-profit organizations, including the Pacific Theological School in Berkeley where he served on the Board for many years. His efforts in Marin County resulted in many miles of roads in Point Reyes being free of trash.
Rigdon is an ardent birder. He has seen and identified more than 5,000 species during his birdwatching avocation, and travelled to 90 countries in pursuit of them. He loves sharing his love of birds with others, and often carries a tripod and telescope to make sure others are able to see and appreciate his finds.
Rigdon is the adoring father of two sons, Steven and David, their partners and his grandchildren. He is the proud stepfather of Chris and Alexis, their spouses and children. There is nothing any of them can ask of him that he would refuse. The center of his family is his wife of 40 years, Trish Johnson. Together they have welcomed hundreds into their Palo Alto and Point Reyes homes, creating havens for those in need. They also created parties, hikes, apple pressing and good times for friends in need.
A brilliant business man, an extraordinary birder, a most generous philanthropist, a friend to so many and a devoted family man, Rigdon Currie sets an example for all of us to emulate. His ninety years have been filled with adventure and giving to others, and we are a better and stronger country because of him and his work.
Madam Speaker, I ask the entire House of Representatives to join me in honoring Rigdon Francis Currie as he celebrates his 90th birthday, and in wishing him many more years of living life to the fullest.
The above Congressional proclamation was written by great friend Anne Raam and delivered by Representative Anna Eshoo, form Santa Clara County, CA
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