TITLE: In memory of Chief Eugene Steven Perdue of the Mineral Wells Fire Department.

SUMMARY: In memory of Chief Eugene Steven Perdue of the Mineral Wells Fire Department.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The life of a dedicated public servant drew to a close with the passing of Chief Eugene Steven Perdue of the Mineral Wells Fire Department on December 5, 2011, at the age of 63; and WHEREAS, A native of the Lone Star State, Steve Perdue was born in Ranger on February 12, 1948, to Eugene and Ruby Perdue; he graduated from Eastland High School and went on to earn his bachelor's and master's degrees from Tarleton State University; in 1967, he began a notable career in education and worked as a high school chemistry and advanced science teacher and as an assistant principal; and WHEREAS, Mr. Perdue was devoted to protecting and serving his fellow citizens; he joined the Mineral Wells Volunteer Fire Department in 1977, and through the years he worked his way up from firefighter to fire chief; his exceptional efforts earned him recognition as the department's 2011 Firefighter of the Year; and WHEREAS, In addition to serving on the legislative board of the State Firemen's and Fire Marshals' Association of Texas, Chief Perdue wrote grant proposals that helped to supply much-needed equipment to a number of fire departments; also benefiting from his skill and expertise were his students at the Texas Engineering Extension Service Municipal Fire School, where he taught every year, and residents of Palo Pinto County, which he served as emergency management coordinator; and WHEREAS, Chief Perdue further gave back to others by helping to establish Tommy's Angel Tree, a nonprofit organization that provides Christmas presents for area children in need; in all of his endeavors, he enjoyed the support of his loving wife, Carla; and WHEREAS, Steve Perdue made a positive difference in the community he served, and he left behind a legacy to treasure for those who held him dear; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 83rd Texas Legislature hereby pay tribute to the memory of Eugene Steven Perdue and extend deepest sympathy to his wife, Carla Hay-Perdue, to his aunt, Corrine Wescott, and to his other relatives and many friends; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for his family and that when the Texas House of Representatives adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Steve Perdue. Keffer Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 1062 was unanimously adopted by a rising vote of the House on March 27, 2013. Chief Clerk of the House