Floor SpeechCeremonial2026-09-14

TRIBUTE TO BOB AND CELIA KIRKWOOD

Context

On 2026-09-14, Senator John Barrasso (R-WY) delivered a floor speech titled "TRIBUTE TO BOB AND CELIA KIRKWOOD" in the Senate.

Full Text

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 144 (Monday, September 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 144 (Monday, September 14, 2026)] [Senate] [Page S4649] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] TRIBUTE TO BOB AND CELIA KIRKWOOD Mr. BARRASSO. Mr. President, I rise today in celebration of Bob and Celia Kirkwood, the Boys and Girls Club of Central Wyoming 2026 honorees. Since 1969, the Boys and Girls Club of Central Wyoming has been inspiring young people to reach their full potential. Local boys and girls participate in educational and athletic programs that provide enrichment and help them become productive, responsible and caring citizens. From leadership development to a focus on healthy lifestyles, the club provides top-notch opportunities for each member. For over 55 years, the Boys and Girls Club of Central Wyoming has connected youth with dedicated volunteers and mentors. The club serves over 13,000 youth each year across its four-county territory, helping each member become their best self. Each year, at its annual breakfast, the organization highlights an individual or couple for their commitment to giving back to the community. This week, they will honor Bob and Celia Kirkwood with this prestigious recognition. On Wednesday, September 16, 2026, the Boys and Girls Club of Central Wyoming will host their annual awards and recognition breakfast in Casper. They will honor the Kirkwoods for their unwavering dedication to the Casper community. Bob and Celia's commitment to the youth of Natrona County is certainly worth celebrating. It is fitting that the Boys and Girl Club of Central Wyoming is publicly recognizing their legacy of service and strong investment in our next generation of leaders. Bob and Celia have been married for 47 years and are the proud parents of Michael Kirkwood, Tom and Cassie Kirkwood and grandparents to Josie. They center their life on faith and are proud that Wyoming has always been home. In 1982, Bob joined his father's business Kirkwood Oil and Gas. Alongside his brother Steve, they have diversified the company to include oil and gas operations, pipeline management, and real estate. He remains an industry advocate and trusted adviser to many around the State. Celia focused her time on raising their sons. From volunteering throughout their education to serving as a Boys and Girls Club Youth of the Year judge, she is committed to giving back to those who need it most. Celia shines behind the scenes, making sure to concentrate on faith, family, and community service. Beyond the Boys and Girls Club, Bob and Celia passionately support Saint Anthony Tri-Parish Catholic School, the Wyoming Rescue Mission, and True Care. Our community is fortunate that, where there is a need, the Kirkwoods are willing to step up to help their friends and neighbors. Bob and Celia are guided by their faith. They encourage the members of the Boys and Girls Club to ``make sure the path you are on leads to the life you truly want and do not be afraid to adjust along the way. Remember, God knows best; trust Him.'' For decades, the couple has led by example and have generously given back to the community they love so much. The Kirkwoods live their mission of meeting real needs and building lasting impact through consistent, practical action. The Boys and Girls Club of Central Wyoming is instrumental in providing young people with a safe, nurturing, and inspiring space to develop and learn. The opportunities afforded to members allow them to become the future leaders we need. These impressive goals would not be possible without the passion and generosity of Bob and Celia. They are exemplary role models of selfless leadership. It is with great honor that I recognize this incredible couple and their ongoing dedication to Casper. I encourage my colleagues to join me in celebrating Bob and Celia Kirkwood for everything they have done and continue to do to make Casper a better place for all. ____________________

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TRIBUTE TO BOB AND CELIA KIRKWOOD Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 144 (Monday, September 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 144 (Monday, September 14, 2026)] [Senate] [Page S4649] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] TRIBUTE TO BOB AND CELIA KIRKWOOD Mr. BARRASSO. Mr. President, I rise today in celebration of Bob and Celia Kirkwood, the Boys and Girls Club of Central Wyoming 2026 honorees. Since 1969, the Boys and Girls Club of Central Wyoming has been inspiring young people to reach their full potential. Local boys and girls participate in educational and athletic programs that provide enrichment and help them become productive, responsible and caring citizens. From leadership development to a focus on healthy lifestyles, the club provides top-notch opportunities for each member. For over 55 years, the Boys and Girls Club of Central Wyoming has connected youth with dedicated volunteers and mentors. The club serves over 13,000 youth each year across its four-county territory, helping each member become their best self. Each year, at its annual breakfast, the organization highlights an individual or couple for their commitment to giving back to the community. This week, they will honor Bob and Celia Kirkwood with this prestigious recognition. On Wednesday, September 16, 2026, the Boys and Girls Club of Central Wyoming will host their annual awards and recognition breakfast in Casper. They will honor the Kirkwoods for their unwavering dedication to the Casper community. Bob and Celia's commitment to the youth of Natrona County is certainly worth celebrating. It is fitting that the Boys and Girl Club of Central Wyoming is publicly recognizing their legacy of service and strong investment in our next generation of leaders. Bob and Celia have been married for 47 years and are the proud parents of Michael Kirkwood, Tom and Cassie Kirkwood and grandparents to Josie. They center their life on faith and are proud that Wyoming has always been home. In 1982, Bob joined his father's business Kirkwood Oil and Gas. Alongside his brother Steve, they have diversified the company to include oil and gas operations, pipeline management, and real estate. He remains an industry advocate and trusted adviser to many around the State. Celia focused her time on raising their sons. From volunteering throughout their education to serving as a Boys and Girls Club Youth of the Year judge, she is committed to giving back to those who need it most. Celia shines behind the scenes, making sure to concentrate on faith, family, and community service. Beyond the Boys and Girls Club, Bob and Celia passionately support Saint Anthony Tri-Parish Catholic School, the Wyoming Rescue Mission, and True Care. Our community is fortunate that, where there is a need, the Kirkwoods are willing to step up to help their friends and neighbors. Bob and Celia are guided by their faith. They encourage the members of the Boys and Girls Club to ``make sure the path you are on leads to the life you truly want and do not be afraid to adjust along the way. Remember, God knows best; trust Him.'' For decades, the couple has led by example and have generously given back to the community they love so much. The Kirkwoods live their mission of meeting real needs and building lasting impact through consistent, practical action. The Boys and Girls Club of Central Wyoming is instrumental in providing young people with a safe, nurturing, and inspiring space to develop and learn. The opportunities afforded to members allow them to become the future leaders we need. These impressive goals would not be possible without the passion and generosity of Bob and Celia. They are exemplary role models of selfless leadership. It is with great honor that I recognize this incredible couple and their ongoing dedication to Casper. I encourage my colleagues to join me in celebrating Bob and Celia Kirkwood for everything they have done and continue to do to make Casper a better place for all. ____________________