Sen. Paul Wellstone

Sen. Paul Wellstone

Paul Wellstone Obituary

Published by Legacy.com on Oct. 25, 2002.
WASHINGTON (AP) – Democratic Sen. Paul Wellstone of Minnesota, one of the last unapologetic liberals left in Congress and known among his friends as a “pied piper of modern politics,” died Friday in a Minnesota plane crash. He was 58.

Wellstone's wife, Sheila Ison Wellstone, and daughter Marcia also died in the crash. Three campaign staff members and two pilots also perished.

When Congress voted overwhelmingly earlier this month to authorize military force against Iraq, Wellstone was the only senator facing a tough re-election challenge to vote no.

Outspoken and opinionated, Wellstone was popular among his colleagues in the Senate and back at home in Minnesota. “He was the pied piper of modern politics – so many people heard him and wanted to follow him in his fight. His loss is monumental,” said Sen. John Kerry, D-Mass.

Wellstone also was known for his sense of humor. When he made a brief and futile run for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1998, he said conspiratorially to an Associated Press reporter that he really didn't think he had a chance to win. The reporter asked why, and Wellstone whispered: “I'm short, I'm Jewish and I'm a liberal.”

A former champion 126-pound wrestler from the University of North Carolina, he announced earlier this year that he suffered from a mild form of multiple sclerosis, evidenced by a pronounced limp when walked around the Capitol and the Senate chamber.

He often was the last person in the Senate chambers at night, giving speeches and advocating his position late into the evening long after most others had gone home.

Wellstone led crusades against bills he felt put the average Americans at a disadvantage. He railed against still-to-be-enacted bankruptcy reforms that enjoy overwhelming support in Congress as benefiting only banks, credit card issuers, automobile finance companies and retailers at the expense of people who “now find themselves in brutal economic circumstances.”

“Are single women with children deadbeats? This bill assumes that they are,” Wellstone said before voting against the Senate measure in July.

Before becoming a senator, Wellstone was a professor and community organizer. He fused the two together in a course he taught at Carleton College in Northfield, Minn., called “Social Movements and Grassroots Organizing.”

Using the lessons from that class, Wellstone launched a longshot bid for Senate in 1990. He toured the state in a rickety old green bus that became a metaphor for his campaign, and stunned the political establishment by knocking off Republican Sen. Rudy Boschwitz.

In seeking re-election this year, Wellstone reneged on his pledge of 1990 to seek no more than two terms, leading some people to suggest that Washington had changed him.

Labeled by a magazine, Mother Jones, as “the first 1960s radical elected to the U.S. Senate,” Wellstone still manage to disappoint liberal followers on occasion. In 1996, he angered gay rights supporters by voting for the “Defense of Marriage” bill, which allowed states to withhold legal recognition of same-sex unions from other states.

Last year, he disappointed some civil rights and civil liberties activists by voting for legislation broadening the government's authority to conduct wiretaps in the wake of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. Sen. Russ Feingold, a Wisconsin Democrat often compared to Wellstone, was the only senator to vote against it.

His vote against the Iraqi resolution was reminiscent of his 1996 campaign, when he was the only senator up for re-election to vote against welfare reform legislation. Wellstone wound up defeating Boschwitz in a rematch that year, 50 percent to 41 percent.

But Wellstone said he hasn't changed his core values on issues ranging from education to affordable housing to labor rights. “I'm on fire on all those conditions and determined to make a difference,” Wellstone said. Wellstone also had two sons, David and Mark, and six grandchildren.


Copyright © 2002 The Associated Press

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Not sure what to say?

May 22, 2016

Kham Lou posted to the memorial.

May 6, 2013

Jeff Larsen posted to the memorial.

October 24, 2012

Hideko Cross posted to the memorial.

Pad Thai Grand Cafe Restaurant, St. Paul, MN, summer 2002

Kham Lou

May 22, 2016

Jeff Larsen

May 6, 2013

You are missed now more than ever, courageous man. You made me more proud to be from Minnesota than any other person from my home state. Bless you.

Hideko Cross

October 24, 2012

May you live on forever1

Hideko Cross

October 24, 2012

I am a Japanese immigrant who moved to CA and have been a resident here for many years. Ever since I read about you and your legacy, I bacame a big fan, and though I never met you I have felt very close to you.
Although you many not be here with us today, your spirit will live forever. There will be many who will take over your dream and fight for human rights -that only is our duty as a human being.

Deb Holman

October 21, 2012

Always missing Paul

Robin Thompson Gordon

March 12, 2009

You all are still so missed.

Cheryl Hanson

December 19, 2008

Political power is the willful act of caring about the powerless.Thank you for defending writers like me who wrote against methamphetamine.peace and love

Miracle

June 21, 2008

I sorry to hear about your lost and I would like to share with the family a comforting scripture at John11:25" Jesus said I am the resurrction and the life he that exercises faith in me, even though he dies will come to life.

jenni breymotto

June 2, 2008

peace be with you Paul

Ellen Murphy

December 2, 2007

My dear Paul:
How thrilled you would be to know that at least 3 new congressmembers and an unknown number of state rep's are now in office who followed in your footsteps--Protogees of yours and attendees of The Camp Wellstone workshops.

Senator Chris Dodd was right when in tribute to you he remarked that the senate chamber will someday be filled with members who cut their teeth in your campaign.
We are carrying on in fine fashion.

Lee Carolynn Jacobson

May 26, 2007

Although I reside in VA now, I am a Minnesota native who loved the idea of a professor in congress. I loved his enthusiasm and dedication.I know that he loved our democracy. I am saddened by the loss. I was watching the news channel at work, waiting. It is one of those times I suspect that I will always know what I was doing and where I was when I heard the news. May God have mercy on the victims of this crash and compassion on their families. We love you.

Chuck B

March 13, 2007

Thanks for Your Service to the People..People like you are hard to come by...I think someone will come forward that you have taught and carry on where you left off. Thanks for shaking my hand and listening to me. That moment will last my lifetime. I carry on with mixing your words into my soundtracks as i have moved out of the Vets home hope it lasts. Thanks for your inspiration and Works!

Darnell Campbell

December 5, 2006

THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING!

Jeff Benjamin

November 9, 2006

I miss you, Paul. I will keep you alive in my heart and my actions.

Michele Malone

November 7, 2006

Missing you on this election day! You will never be forgotten and your legacy will truly always live on!

Elaina

October 1, 2006

The 4th anniversary will return to us on the 25th of this month.
My eyes watered when I saw footage of Paul in Al Franken's new movie.
The senate and this country need him more than ever.

Daniel Del Caro

June 24, 2006

The parade was in Biwabik, you were but a little man with big dreams. You went after the other man's record...and you became the man history will herald as "the best man." We miss you Paul.....

Gloria Laundrie

April 1, 2006

You know, there is often talk about someone's being a light, a beacon, the living evidence that there is a God who cares about us. Paul Wellstone was, and still is, that light, that beacon, and proof without doubt that there is a God, a caring God, to have given us Paul. I can still visualize him in the Senate, speaking from his heart, his light shone then and still shines. May others emulate him, may other senators remind themselves of the good that they can do by also striving to be living proof of the goodness of the universe. Paul Wellstone has blessed us with his work and his passion and his caring. I wish I were younger, I would be able to do more. May the young people coming up find inspiration and live up to the challenges he offered all of us. To just plain care about each other! God bless us all and make us worthy advocates of a caring heart! Others have said the following but it is still true: God's work here on earth is truly our own!

Eva Chavarria Hunter

March 31, 2006

Steve from IA you captured the essence of a man so dedicated to people that God broke the mold when he made Paul Wellstone. He was the proponent for all the people of this nation & he would have been the best man for the job of representing us had he lived. Guess God had other plans for PW and the rest of the crew on the plane w/him. You're right he was the best & it'd be hard for anyone else to top him!

Victoria Wolf

March 31, 2006

Truly missed ... still, and oh ... how needed to help to mend our nation.



No doubt he would be standing with Senator Feingold today, in body ... his spirit is surely there.



I believe that ...

Steve Elvidge

March 30, 2006

Today, I was home watching the LINK cable station and Pauls life story was aired. I previously knew nothing of Paul's life or political legacy. Believe it or not, the reason I caught this documentary, was because I was home from work, due to a bad back.

Towards the end of the show, upon his death, I wept as if he was a family member. I believe he was the best politician, for the people, that ever lived. Sincerely, Steve

Linda

October 3, 2005

How sad that he missed the big rally last weekend here in DC. I just know his strong ringing voice would have resonated all over the country.

But how wonderful that all of us who loved Paul and Shelia can be sure they will not be forgotten.

Judy McAloon

October 1, 2005

You were one of a kind, Paul Wellstone. You treated everyone the same: rich and poor, all races, immigrants, servicemen/women and those in other states and countries. You weren't bought and paid for. We were truly blessed for the short time you were on the planet.

Bill Bucolo

September 30, 2005

Paul Wellstone's death was a most untimely and unlikely loss for America. A real mystery with many questions left to answer. We all must continue his mission of common sense and clarity in government and remember him for it.

Rob N.

September 26, 2005

Today, there is still a deafening silence that only your voice could squelch. You are still dearly missed.

Glori Anne Laundrie

September 21, 2005

You live on in the spirit of those who believe we are all equally important, and that all of the human race is worthy of caring about. Thank you for your passion and your spirit, it was and is an asset to the universe.

Ray Lentz

September 20, 2005

Great men are never forgotten, you will always be remembered as a man of the people, a man of honesty and integrity.

John & NIcole O'Hara

September 19, 2005

We think that Paul Wellstone was such a true fighter for the rights of the common man and working people

We will always miss him dearly.

Sincerely

John & Nicole

Seth Tubman

September 9, 2005

Senator Wellstone was a true lion of the left. His shrewdness, energy, passion, intelligence, and fire has been lost for not just Democrats, but all Americans. God bless him.

William Little

August 7, 2005

I miss you more with each passing day! I can only hope that other Senator's will at least attempt to follow the standards you have set, not only for them, but other politician's as well.

Mary Wells

August 6, 2005

We still grieve over your passing. You are just as missed today as ever. Maybe because this country needs you and your goodness so badly.

Bonnetta Rohde

August 5, 2005

Shout Out



I'm in this world though not a part

Of empty delusions and thought

Bound and chained taking the heart

Of many that have fought

For love and for peace

And truth through out

Earth's release

Now shout

Out



Bonnetta Rohde 8/1/05

All my poetry, and other writings are all legally ©Copyrighted before posting.

Thank you

In memory of Paul Wellstone

Your spirit lives on in the hearts of many.

Pete Patel

May 24, 2005

You will be remembered Sen. Paul Wellstone.

Dale Weeks

April 22, 2005

You are sorely misssed today.

Mavis Lentz

April 21, 2005

You were the best of the best! You will always be missed.

Roslyn O'dell

February 18, 2005

Dear Paul----

I can't get you out of my heart.

EMC Hunter

February 14, 2005

Happy St. Valentine's Day to all who admired & loved the Senator: May God bless Paul & those who perished with him. Let's keep in mind & heart the passion he had for all who came in sight.

Step it up for those who need to see that drive on earth passed from the spirit of this wee, wonderful man. Here's to Paul Wellstone who's legacy sparks & tweaks to the tune of fervor making this a better world, country, state & home ~ Heaven must be reeling!

David Dordal

February 12, 2005

His warmth, his passion, his unending support for the common people will never be forgotten. He was the best of us. There is a leadership void in our country now. He was the finest person Minnesota has ever elected to public office. I ran the 1992 Twin Cities Marathon wearing a Wellstone t-shirt, afterwards I met the Senator and talked with him for a few minutes. What a wonderful,personable man he was. He even thanked me for wearing his shirt. Thank you Senator.

Helene Schmidt

January 6, 2005

May you take your place amongst the other people of courage who truly loved this country and spoke your mind in its defense no matter what!

You, sir, were a profoud patriot and a gentleman and a good, honest, brave AMERICAN!

May you long be remembered for all of the good that you did for ALL of us, ALL of the people of the United States regardless... Our AMERICAN hearts beat as one!

It is unfortunate that you passed away MUCH TOO SOON and that you weren't unable to run for PRESIDENT of these United States.

You may have been misunderstood by rabid partisans but your courage to stand by your convictions and to speak the truth should be considered an example for ALL public servants to emulate.

You stood up for people like me. You helped people like me.

And we need you now,more than ever!

Thank you for serving!

John & NIcole O'Hara

January 6, 2005

We will always remeber Paul Wellstone as a true crusader for the poor and middle class people.

He was a true and so sincere to stand for the average guy.

Kathleen Schwitalla

January 6, 2005

I know our country and state would be in better condition, if you were living today. Miss your honesty and standing up for what is right.

Tim Cazzaniga

January 5, 2005

He will be in our hearts forever

Bryan Jenkins

January 5, 2005

He will always be remembered and never forgotten. Indeed, he truly knew how to represent what many people desired.

Brenda Hagen

November 11, 2004

Paul Wellstone was a tireless warrior for the "little guy". Although small of stature, he was a giant of a man who never betrayed his conscience or that of his supporters. I miss him and his courage every day. He may have been the last best hope for a progressive, common voice in Washington.

Gloria Laundrie

September 23, 2004

Some men's lives shine so brightly. that even though the loss of such a man is sad, it is also hopeful. If it means that each of us, one person at a time, lives to better our neighbor's lives, to care, then that sadness is relieved by gratitude and hope. I think Paul Wellstone would ask us all to never let the light of faith in the goodness of all human beings fade. We can do and be better. He showed us how. God bless us, every one.

E.M.C. Hunter

September 22, 2004

Has it come to the anniversary date of their death? I agree a part of me has with the loss of this great man mislaid a positive outlook on where the country's headed. We need to make a stand like Paul would have and turn it around!

Paul Vance

September 21, 2004

I miss Paul Wellstone's wisdom, passion and courage nearly every day, but even more so during this troublesome time in our nation's history. It is as if hope died with him.

berttha hopson

August 18, 2004

I miss seeing him on the floor of the Senate. I had alot of hope when he was there because he fought for all the people. I love and miss him very much.

Bertha Hopson

Kristina Lund

August 16, 2004

Senator Wellstone was and is an inspiration. I was recently married and in lieu of reception favors for our guests, my husband and I made a donation to the Paul and Sheila Wellstone Center for Community Building. My husband is a recent immigrant whose visa was facilitated by Senator Wellstone and we could think of no greater "gift" to our guests that to honor Senator and Mrs. Wellstone.

Kafi Cosette' Sondai

August 15, 2004

To the Wellstone family.



I still miss "the little guy" with the big dreams in his heart and mind.



After two years, I painfully miss Paul, sheila, and Marcia.





This past year, I have missed sheila so much.. I have seen women who look so like her to the point of where my heart jumps when I see them!



I had an opportunity to write about Paul in 2002 after his untimely death...



It was to painful for me to do so.



I met Marcia once as she campaigned for her father in 1990.



She was vivacious and beautiful. She was friendly as well, with a big smile.



To you Paul's family:



I miss your father and family yet so much..



I miss the little guy with the big dreams in his heart and mind.



The Lord's blessings to you, all of the Wellstone family.



Kafi Cosette' Sondai

Lynn Carol

August 13, 2004

Every day is less for the loss of you and your's. May God let you work your magic from the changing skies, and unite us for peace and justice on earth.



from Lynn, 8 13 04

John & NIcole O'Hara

May 23, 2004

We always admired Paul Wellstone as a very true and sincere member of the Senate. We hope that his ideals and legacy can be kept alive by the next generation.We feel his life is an inspiration to the young ppeople who will follow.

James Van Amber

May 18, 2004

I met Senator Wellstone several times and was once on a WCCO radio program with him regarding my mother's psychiatric VA records which were troubling. I wrote the book Regina's Record thanks in part to Senator Wellstone's help.

David Adler

March 11, 2004

Paul Wellstone touched my life and my heart as few politicians have. He didn’t run away from the term, “liberal,” but rather embraced it and taught us all to be proud of our shared beliefs. His courage and idealism continues to inspire me to fight for all the good things this country once stood for.

Ellen Murphy

March 9, 2004

It appears I'm not the only one who is still missing Paul Wellstone these days. The hurt is fresh and his spirit is with me always.



Knowing him and Sheila as I did-going to rallies on Tibet and domestic violence-meeting in the hallways of the senate-I still feel the void of knowing these memories are all I have.



But I am so fortunate to have them. I am so glad of the photographs I took and speeches I recorded. Now I can look at them any time I need to-which can be for days at a time. I will obviously never forget him.

Chao Lee

March 1, 2004

Paul, we miss you. You are always a champion, a leader and hero for the poor, the disadvantaged and the minority. Your spirits will live forever.

Linda Ims

February 28, 2004

We will continue to miss such a man. As he has touched so many hearts and minds as no other ever will. His energy and vibrance for life radiated from him. So committed to his cause, despite his physical problems. Strength and Integrity! Linda

Donna Good

February 27, 2004

Paul Wellstone was a guest at a meeting I was attending. I had the opportunity to walk down a

hallway beside him and could see that he was not a "tall" man in stature but he towered over everyone he was ever near . He will be missed even long after the rest of us are gone. I miss you now, Paul and think of you often. The spirit of this HONEST man is still in our midst.

Steven Holzinger

February 27, 2004

With all the troubles in the world today Paul Wellstone is still our rock, a light in the gloom. He still instills values that no one can ever take away. His voice is still clear. The moral values he stood for will never be snuffed out. There's no end to the good things you can say about this man.God knows we need his guidance now to end the ever increasing decay in this country. We miss you Paul.

Leon Fainstadt

February 26, 2004

PAUL WELLSTONE WAS A TRUE CHAMPION OF THE PEOPLE OF THE UNITED STATES.

I followed Sen. Wellstone's career and found him to be courageous and honest. Having been a student at the College of St. Teresa in Winona as well as the UofM in Minneapolis I had some experience with Minnesota.

I think of Sen. Wellstone often and miss his fiery voice and humanity. Paul Wellstone will always be my Senator from Minnesota. Perhaps one day there will come another champion of the people who will ignite America with the same truth and integrity exhibited by this wonderful human being who was on this earth for too short a time.

Bless You Sen. Wellstone wherever you are.

Mavis Lentz

February 26, 2004

I met Paul once,at a farm meeting in a near by small town. I had the great honor of shaking his hand, and getting his autograph. I will never forget how he took time to talk to me, an average housewife. The state of Minnesota and the entire country has suffered an enormous loss.

Jane Bronson

February 26, 2004

I met Paul Wellstone in person only once; he impressed me very much as being a good, sincere man! Our short visit will never be forgotten. He would have climbed to greater heights, and we would be better off if he were still here!

Sherry Savage

November 11, 2003

Two Sundays ago we celebrated All Saints Day in our church. During the service the Pastor called the children up for the children's message for the day. He talked about the more famous cities named after Saints. He asked about a college town in southern Minnesota, which was devastated by a tornado. He then told the children that St. Peter was one of the disciples. He then asked, now who do you think St. Paul was named after? One of the children piped up...Wellstone? I think Mr. Paul Wellstone got quite a kick out of that! He is truly a Saint.

Roger O'Day

November 9, 2003

Being a journalist, I miss Paul's easy interview style. I will never forget walking the halls of Northfield High school, after doing an interview with him, before his campaign, he said that if Rudy Boschwitz would not debate him in all of the Minnesota Districts, he would kick his ???. I said, Paul, you are a bleeding heart liberal, you can't beat on somebody....He said just watch me.

Paul would call me back inside 10 minutes when I would call Washington about a story. After a phone interview I asked him how his back was.....he said, Thats the Northfield in you.....caring how I feel.

There never was a more honest political figure. I also told him, I may not always agree with your politics, but I admire your bante rooster fight in you.

Roger O'Day

International Broadcast Center

Grafton, North Dakota, Morden, Manitoba, Canada.

Ellen Murphy

October 31, 2003

Halloween is here again. Two years ago today is the last time I saw Sheila-in the hallway of a senate building back when I lived in Washington.

I don't remember the last time I saw Paul but I will never forget him. He's left a void that will never be filled again.

Heidi Jones

October 25, 2003

It all happened one year ago today. I remember the day vividly. I got a phone call at work and I was in disbelief. The day before I was on my college campus protesting a visit by Norm Coleman. I was never interested in politics before my roommate told me about Paul, his beliefs, his history and his campaign. I had never heard of a politician who fought for the average person, and that was why Paul intrigued me so much. I will always remember that protest, that phone call, and most importantly, the legacy of Paul Wellstone. I now live in Maryland, but I still have my Wellstone! bumper sticker on my car. I take pride in the fact that people ask me what it means because I then attempt to describe to him/her how truly great he was-and then realize that words cannot do him, his work, or his life justice; the bus isn't parked yet!

John Bosma

October 19, 2003

I spent 25 years living in Minneapolis and had the profound pleasure of supporting the first Wellstone campaign as a volunteer. Paul was a marvelous individual who had both the conviction and the guts to stand up for what he believed in - something we sorely need in Washington DC these days. Contrary to what some would have you believe, it will never be time to park the bus as far as I'm concerned.

Emily Louise Dockendorf

October 19, 2003

I am signing this guestbook, because, I feel that we must continue to fight for what's right in America- for the less fortunate, for basic human rights, and to uphold our democracy. Paul and Sheila Wellstone were role models and their voices, compassion, and beliefs helped to build a better America- they were the ones fighting to uphold the basic modes of life, and I am fortunate to have met Paul and Sheila Wellstone- In Washington, D.C.- through the Close-Up Program- and it was a true blessing. I am saddened at their passing and truly wish Paul and Shelia were still here. However, I hope that their spirits will always be alive and will help us to make the best decisions and restore our own democracy. I am a true liberal, and I will continue to fight for liberal ideas- thanks- and peace- from the shores of Duluth and Lake Superior- Emily Louise Dockendorf- Post- Bac/Graduate Student- Env. and Special Education- University of Minnesota Duluth- Duluth, MN

Michael Van Cleve

October 19, 2003

though I know you were not perfect and had to move from positions in order to make the political process move you represented a touch of realness that is continuing to fade in American politics. Bless you, your wife and the dreams you dared to dream.

Dale Martens

October 19, 2003

I remember walking in a parade when you were running for election to office. I always voted for you.

Martin Maguet

October 19, 2003

Senator Wellstone, Admired and respected in central Illinois. Thank you for your service to our country. An American patriot for all Americans!

Jonathan Kaspari

October 19, 2003

paul, you were a positive influence on everyone you touched. You fought the fights no one else would. You changed things no one thought could be changed. Your courage, integrity and heart is missed everyday. We have do it for Paul.

Bud Poland

October 19, 2003

You will always be greatlt missed by the Veterans you so proudly represented, you were our spokesman and will always bemissed by all of us, rest in peace Paul.

Carlos da Cruz

October 19, 2003

Paul was a true politician with genuine concern for the people and the people's needs, he was the only politician who ever answer my concerns. I wish that others (politicians) learn a little bit from this man.

Moxamuud Abdallah

October 19, 2003

Dear Senator:

Though you are not with us,your sprit still continues to fill the state and the entire country, and your acts of kindness and generousity have made you dwell in the hearts of millions of new-americans of all colors and beliefs. hardly a day goesby without your name being mentioned among the millions of americans your stood for and served with dignity and valor. Your are dearly missed senator.

Matt Ziegler

October 19, 2003

Paul you provided great leadership in your work in the senate and your attention to the disenfranchised of society. It took incredible courage to standby the views you believed in even though it's now unfashionable to be called a liberal, because of your work and leadership I am proud to be a liberal.

Teresa Mitchell

October 19, 2003

His energy and hope inspired me to participate in the elections last year...he'll be greatly missed in the Native community, nia:wen:kowa Paul.

Ron P. Wacks

October 19, 2003

I remember the first time I heard Paul Speak. It was at a DFL State Central meeting in Winona many years ago. I have never seen an audience moved like that as a result of any speaker, artist or performer. The roof almost blew off in support for the substance and style of his remarks. Paul and Sheila were activists and policy makers first and politicians second. It was always about creating positive change or influencing those who would make it and not personal gain or ego. I think this brand of unselfish, populist politics reflected the style of many of our country's constitutional framers and certainly their intent.

Paul, Sheila, Mary Mac., and all will be missed but never forgotten.

Bernard and Terri Picotte

October 19, 2003

As former residents of Minnesota we continued to follow Senator Wellstone. He worked and spoke on behalf of the poor and working class citizens. We miss him and his efforts. We remember him and his family in prayer often.

Dave Zuck

October 19, 2003

I always voted for you... and you are missed... I hope others carry on... and just as much... peace...

Sara Bartlett

October 19, 2003

I was a Minnesotan when Paul Wellstone was in the Senate, and I always enjoyed seeing him talking to folks at the State Fair. I've never seen anyone with so much genuine energy! I was driving on the Washington, D.C. Beltway when I heard that his plane went down, and at that moment, I realized the depth of my admiration for this man. He gave a tremendous amount of himself to what he believed in, and Minnesota couldn't have had a better caretaker of our hopes and dreams.

Thank you,

Sara Bartlett

Actor/Director/Writer

Sierra D

October 19, 2003

I am 15 years old and I love Politics. Paul Wellstone is the reason for my passion; he was one of the only politicians I had ever seen that spoke the truth. He was truly for the people and not the money and for that I will always admire him.

Susan Benike

October 19, 2003

First of all, God Bless Paul and Shelia's family. It has been a year since Paul and Sheila's passing and still not a day goes by that something is happening in our communities, state and the world that makes me think if only Paul were here to give us a voice. He truly was a man of conviction, honesty,and he provided unconditional love to all of the people in the world. He loved life and people and gave of himself to help the people in need not worrying about the politics involved. He has been missed and will continue to be missed. Why cannot more people emulate this great man!



Susan Benike Saint Michael, MN.

Julie Rodriguez

October 19, 2003

It seems the Minnesota I knew and loved died with Paul Wellstone. Much of my hope for the future went with him. There will never be another Paul Wellstone, but we desperately need one. He was a blessing to our state and a hero in our times.

christopher mendenhall

October 19, 2003

You are greatly missed, all of you. The Wellstones left a wonderful legacy for the whole country. Every politician should emulate the values Paul Wellstone had, if they did, America and the world would be a far better place to live.

Enrique Bustillos

October 19, 2003

It was my great honor to have voted for Paul and Sheila when I lived in MN in 1996. A vote for Paul was also a vote for Sheila as they were a team in all things. It has been my misfortune in life to rarely vote for anyone who I agreed with in everything, but Paul was the exception. He was a great American. The present powers that be would do a lot better if they were to emulate Paul. I miss Paul terribly. Our country is the worse for his absence. Paul believed in a better America and worked for it like few others. We have to believe that his vision will someday be achieved. Let's hope that day comes soon.

Stephanie Bisson Belseth

October 19, 2003

Paul -

You are remembered and missed immensely. Thank you for your time with us -- Minnesota and this nation were lucky to have you for as long as we did. We only wish we could have had you just a little longer.



I pray that a million Paul Wellstone wannabees will rise up to honor you by fighting passionately for the causes of peace and justice; for children, the poor, sick, vulnerable, disenfranchised and oppressed.



My sincere condolences again to Mark and David.

Daniel Petros

October 19, 2003

Rest in PEACE!You are a wonderful man stands for peace and advocate to immigrant.

Laurie Gunderson

October 19, 2003

I really loved to hear Paul speak, he seemed to be speaking directly to me because he spoke through his heart. I met him once when he was with his brother and he was so nice to talk to. I miss you Paul.



Laurie Gunderson

Coley Murphy

October 19, 2003

Thank you the time you spent with us. You are missed.

Delvin Cree

October 19, 2003

As a representative from the Minneapolis Native community, I would like to thank Paul for all the work that he has done on behalf of our native people. He was the type of advocate and leader that cannot be replaced. May the Great Spirit continue to with him and his family.

Michael Lundberg

October 18, 2003

Paul made us proud again of the title Liberal. Too often we let others dictate our definition, Paul changed that.

Marc Fredson

October 18, 2003

Serving as a volunteer for Paul's campaign was a life-changing experience in itself. But his death had such a profound impact. From that day forward, I have found myself relentlessly committed to speaking the truth -- and standing up for the truth. Paul's death somehow ignited a new sense of courage in me; I realize how important it is for me, with my small voice, to stand up and speak up when I hear and see injustice. I used to understand this from somewhat of a theoretical standpoint, but since Paul died I have put it into practice. I know that I have a responsibility to stand up and fight if we will see the change in the world that Paul himself fought so hard for.

Maggie Berthiaume

October 18, 2003

I can't believe it's been a whole year. I miss your spirit and voice more than ever. You were a politician - and man - with heart.

Mike McGrath

October 18, 2003

Good friends will always be remembered ... Paul and Sheila ... for their friendship and their good works.

Patty Smith

October 18, 2003

Paul, it was your convictions, your faith, your principles and your love of the people not only in Minnesota but in all walks and ways of life, that won my heart and soul. I trusted you completely. I smiled and felt wonderful, proud and connected to the possibility of change with you in Washington, you were my voice and the voice for so many.



I sit here, surprised at the tears on my cheeks, still in shock over the loss of you in our lives. But so thankful that you were here to teach us and eternally grateful for the gifts you left.



I love you Sen. Wellstone and will miss you for a very long time.

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