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Senate adopts resolution honoring Theodore Ralph Groener’s public service
Summary
The Senate adopted House Concurrent Resolution 13 recognizing the life and public service of Theodore Ralph Groener, a longtime Oregon political figure, labor advocate and community leader.
The Oregon Senate on Monday adopted House Concurrent Resolution 13, honoring the life and public service of Theodore Ralph Groener.
Senator Meek presented the resolution, recounting Groener’s biography: born Dec. 25, 1941, in Oregon City; high-school graduation in 1960; four years of service in the U.S. Air Force, where he received the Airman’s Medal in 1963 for rescuing three people from drowning; a University of Oregon degree in 1969; early work as a community organizer and a lifelong career advocating for working families. Meek noted Groener’s election to the Oregon House in 1972, co-sponsorship of early gay-rights legislation in 1973, and his role carrying land-use legislation (Senate Bill 100) in the House. Groener later served on the Clackamas County Board of Commissioners and on the Clackamas Community College Board; he spent decades as a political coordinator and lobbyist for AFSCME.
On the floor, senators offered personal remembrances. Senator Jarrad recalled Groener’s humor and an anecdote about an AFSCME endorsement; Senator Frederick said interviews with Groener often included laughter and good information. Meek closed by saying Groener’s legacy is “written in the lives he touched” and urged members to honor his example.
The clerk called the roll on the third reading and the resolution was adopted; the clerk recorded a vote count of 30 ayes. The resolution and remarks were placed in the Senate journal and copies given to family members present in the gallery.
