RECOGNIZING LeRETTE FUNERAL CHAPEL

On 2026-01-27, Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) delivered a floor speech titled "RECOGNIZING LeRETTE FUNERAL CHAPEL" in the Senate. The speech addressed healthcare and also covered housing, veterans affairs. It referenced legislation including S288, S289.

RECOGNIZING LeRETTE FUNERAL CHAPEL

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 19 (Tuesday, January 27, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 19 (Tuesday, January 27, 2026)] [Senate] [Pages S288-S289] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING LeRETTE FUNERAL CHAPEL Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to honor LeRette Funeral Chapel of Montgomery County, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. Founded in 1914, LeRette Funeral Chapel began with a mission rooted in service, compassion, and community care. Established originally as the Perryman Funeral Chapel in downtown Red Oak by Raymond and Gertrude Perryman, the business was created to provide families with dignified, respectful support during life's most difficult moments. With a dedicated team of two full-time and three part-time employees, the chapel has become a place where families turn for guidance and comfort. Over the decades, the funeral chapel transitioned through family ownership, reflecting the evolving needs of the community it served. In [[Page S289]] 1951, Ted and Ann Nelson assumed ownership and constructed a new chapel, expanding its capacity while preserving its personal, family- focused approach. In 1971, Mike and Erin Boylan continued that tradition, strengthening the chapel's role as a dependable presence for generations of Montgomery County families. In 2001, Brian LeRette, who had worked at the funeral chapel for years, and his wife Dawn became the fourth family to own the business, renaming it LeRette Funeral Chapel. Under their leadership, the chapel has continued to provide personalized and affordable services, including burial and cremation options, meaningful memorial keepsakes, and dedicated support for veterans and their families. For many in southwest Iowa, LeRette Funeral Chapel is not simply a service provider, but a trusted partner during times of loss, known for treating every family with kindness, patience, dignity, and respect. Though tested by hardship in 2023, when a fire destroyed the chapel's facility, the LeRette family remained steadfast in their mission to serve. With resilience and determination, they rebuilt and reopened a new location in 2025, ensuring Montgomery County families continued to have access to compassionate, professional care. Beyond their professional service, Brian and Dawn LeRette are deeply invested in the civic life of southwest Iowa and are involved in local organizations, including the Montgomery County Fair, Red Oak Chamber of Commerce, school booster programs, and faith-based initiatives. Brian has served in leadership roles with the Montgomery County Fair Board, City of Red Oak Low Rent Housing, and the Heritage Foundation, while also supporting local arts, youth athletics, and healthcare initiatives. Dawn has spent decades supporting youth and community development through her leadership with 4-H, the Montgomery County Fair, and local service organizations, earning recognition for her long-standing commitment to mentoring the next generation. Together, the LeRettes are known for their generosity and hands-on support of community and school projects across southwest Iowa, reflecting their belief that small businesses succeed best when communities are strong. It is my honor to recognize Brian and Dawn LeRette and the entire LeRette Funeral Chapel team for their dedication to Montgomery County. I look forward to their continued success and wish them the very best in the years ahead. ____________________