The publication is reproduced in full below:
HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF BILL JIMMERSON
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HON. MATTHEW M. ROSENDALE, SR.
of montana
in the house of representatives
Friday, October 7, 2022
Mr. ROSENDALE. Madam Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to a dedicated public servant and Montana legend, Bill Jimmerson, who passed away last week at the age of 74. Bill will best be remembered for his outsized impact in Montana. As a well-known Montana State FFA advisor and an agricultural educator, Bill taught and influenced thousands of agriculture advocates, government officials, and aspiring students over his 32 years of service.
Bill drew his inspiration for agriculture from his father, who was the FFA advisor for Lewistown, Montana. His father corralled him one day and asked a young Bill if he wanted to stay in Winifred to play sports or go to Lewistown to receive an education. Bill, interested in agriculture at the time, decided to go to Lewistown with his father and embark on a journey that would change his life forever.
His time in Lewistown would eventually lead to a career in teaching in Conrad, Montana. In 1980, he began teaching at Conrad High School, providing students with the knowledge and skills needed to start their own careers in state agricultural sales and management. In 2003, he concluded his teaching career and became an Agricultural Loan Officer for Stockman Bank. Bill then served as Montana State FFA Advisor from 2005 to 2013. During his tenure, he was widely known for the breadth and depth of his knowledge: he was familiar with every parcel of land and had a grasp on agricultural issues facing the entire state. Many drew inspiration from Bill and often sought his advice.
Bill was known as an architect of Montana agriculture. In 2012 he developed a national program for Native American FFA members, earning recognition from the White House and laying the groundwork for more improvements across the state. His national program encouraged many Native Americans to become more immersed in agriculture, allowing more Montanans to invest in their state and its policies.
Bill Jimmerson will be missed, not just by family and friends, but by all Montanans who were touched by his service. His impact will continue to be felt as the next generation prepares to tackle Montana's most pressing agricultural issues. Bill has left an indelible mark on his community and Montana agriculture--he will be remembered fondly.
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SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 168, No. 161(1), Congressional Record Vol. 168, No. 161(2)
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