Rep. Peters Memorializes Tony Gwynn in Congress

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representative Scott Peters (CA-52) led San Diego’s congressional delegation in submitting a statement for the Congressional record honoring the life and legacy of the late Tony Gwynn, a Major League Hall of Fame baseball player with the San Diego Padres who passed away on Monday.

“San Diego lost a local hero with the passing of ‘Mr. Padre’ Tony Gwynn,” Rep. Peters said. “He was a committed teammate, mentor, coach, community icon, husband, and father who inspired San Diegans of every age – the type of athlete you hope your children look up to for sportsmanship and loyalty. His contributions to San Diego both on and off the field cannot be understated, and he will be deeply missed. I send my thoughts and prayers to his family at this difficult time.”

The tribute to Tony Gwynn, as printed in the Congressional Record, can be read HERE or in full text below:

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Mr. Speaker, I, along with my fellow members of the San Diego Delegation including Representative Davis, Representative Issa, Representative Hunter, and Representative Vargas, rise today to pay tribute to the life of Mr. Tony Gwynn, a celebrated batting champion in the Major League Baseball Hall of Fame and beloved San Diego Padre. For over 30 years, Tony’s enthusiasm for baseball and life itself was a source of goodwill for our national pastime and for all San Diegans. He will be sorely missed by the many people he inspired to play the game and by the many lives he touched on and off the baseball diamond.

Tony Gwynn was a baseball legend. The 15-time All-Star led the Padres to two World Series appearances. In his career, he accumulated 3,141 hits over 20 seasons, earning a career batting average of .338, the highest since Ted Williams. He also received a record-tying eight National League batting titles in addition to winning five Gold Glove Awards in recognition of his defensive skills. Gwynn was elected to the Hall of Fame in 2007, his first year of eligibility.

Gwynn’s dedication to the sport was only matched by his remarkable character and his love for San Diego, earning him the nickname, “Mr. Padre.”  While Gwynn had the option to play elsewhere, he loyally spent his entire career in San Diego. Following his time as a player, he remained in San Diego to dedicate the remainder of his life to coaching at his alma mater, San Diego State University. A role model to many, Gwynn focused more on brightening the lives of others than on pursuing fame and fortune for himself. He is remembered for his kindness and generosity as well as for his infectious laugh.

Mr. Speaker, it is with the utmost respect that I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me in paying tribute to the life of Tony Gwynn, an outstanding athlete and exemplary citizen, friend, and family man. His love of the game, tireless dedication, genial attitude, and uplifting presence will be missed.

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