SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 553

WHEREAS, Dr. Jack Hetzel of Big Sandy has fulfilled a lifelong dream by receiving his high school diploma at the age of 99; and

WHEREAS, Circumstances when he was a child forced Dr. Hetzel to drop out of school in the third grade, and although he earned a GED, he has regretted never receiving a high school diploma; and

WHEREAS, Now, at the age of 99, this determined gentleman was at last awarded his diploma, and he was honored at the graduation ceremony at Big Sandy High School on May 28, 2021; and

WHEREAS, A longtime pastor at First United Methodist Church, Dr. Hetzel has lived a rich and purposeful life; he takes well-deserved pride in his service during World War II, when he fought in Normandy and took part in the Battle of the Bulge; he will turn 100 in the fall of 2021; and

WHEREAS, At an age when most people slow down and look back, Dr. Jack Hetzel set a challenging new goal for himself and achieved it, and his determination and lifelong passion for knowledge serve to inspire all those who are fortunate enough to know him; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 87th Legislature, hereby commend Dr. Jack Hetzel on receiving his high school diploma at the age of 99 and extend to him sincere best wishes for continued success and happiness; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That an official copy of this Resolution be prepared for Dr. Hetzel as an expression of high regard from the Texas Senate.

Hughes

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on May 31, 2021.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate