Letter from Governor Ben Nelson to Audra Weitzel, May 24, 1996

It is with a heavy heart that I write this letter. My thoughts and prayers are with you, and you have my deepest sympathy.

As you know, Irving was a fighter. He exemplified the strength and perseverance that is the hallmark of American values. He survived life in a concentration camp and carried those memoriees with him to this country. He brought the desire, knowledge and ethic to work hard and share your good fortunes with others.

Irving gave his time, his talents, his energy and his enthusiasm to the Scottsbluff/Gering community and the state of Nebraska through his many contributions. His warm welcome and firm handshake made everyone feel at ease. He was one of Nebraska's best ambassadors, traveling the world and promoting the good life he so cherished here.

Today, we say our final good-byes to this outstanding man. His gifts to this state will live on as a lasting tribute to him and his family--the family he cared so much about and took such pride in everything they did.

I am honored to have known him and will miss him.