CWA Mourns Death of Jack Kemp     5/4/2009

Washington, D.C. — Concerned Women for America mourns the death of Jack Kemp, an outstanding public servant who exemplified an ideal blend of political and personal integrity. As a frequent speaker at CWA's national conventions, Kemp used his strong personality, energy, ebullience, and enthusiasm to support those foundational principles that enabled America to become the land of the free and develop into the world's superpower.

The Kemps were close, personal friends of Tim and Beverly LaHaye (the founder and chairman of CWA) and the LaHayes endorsed Jack Kemp's 1988 presidential bid. Gil and Janice Crouse (Senior Fellow of CWA's Beverly LaHaye Institute) organized Kemp's first campaign event in Buffalo, New York, when he left his pro-football career to seek public office as a congressman from western New York.

Mrs. LaHaye said, "The marriage and faith of Jack and Joanne Kemp serve as a role model for today's young people. Their Christian commitment was real and vital, and it showed in their private life just as clearly as when Jack gave public speeches and endorsed policies that brought America out of an era of 'stagflation' into economic strength and capitalistic power. We at CWA send our love and condolences to the Kemp family and pray that God will be their Comforter in this time of grief and loss."

Wendy Wright, President of CWA, said, "From football to politics, Jack Kemp was a star player who won fans through the irresistible force of his personality and ideals. His successes, from legislation to educational policies to his children, left America a better place."

Janice Crouse said, "With his death this week, America has lost a man whose faith, life, and career are inextricably linked to the best aspects of our national history and tradition. Jack Kemp's life illustrates the power of integrity and authentic Christianity. The loss of Jack Kemp is a loss for all conservatives who had in his leadership a man who could bridge gaps among special interest groups while remaining true to his own faith and principles. I know that Joanne, their children and grandchildren, while deeply grieving, are not mourning as those who have no hope; they are relishing the cherished memories of his life and looking toward the time when there will be no more grief and loss. Our prayers are with them as they adjust to life without the dynamic presence of Jack Kemp."

For Information Contact:
Demi Bardsley
(202) 488-7000, ext. 1020
media.cwfa.org

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