WHEREAS, It is the policy of the Washington State Legislature to recognize excellence in all fields of endeavor; and
     WHEREAS, Dr. Philip Vandeman exhibited true excellence throughout his personal, professional, and public life; and
     WHEREAS, Dr. Philip Vandeman, born in 1915 in Dayton, Ohio, earned his medical degree from The Ohio State University, and served America in time of conflict by providing medical care for the wounded in the Second World War; and
     WHEREAS, Dr. Philip Vandeman moved to Washington after the Second World War, and founded Olympia's first pediatric practice; and
     WHEREAS, Dr. Philip Vandeman exhibited the highest levels of service during his lifetime through his medical work, including providing countless hours of invaluable medical care for adults and children, and improving the lives of thousands of children through his medical practice for over one-half century; and
     WHEREAS, Dr. Philip Vandeman provided medical services through both his private practice and through the creation of the Mental Health Association of Thurston County, a nonprofit that offers counseling and substance abuse recovery programs; and
     WHEREAS, Dr. Philip Vandeman demonstrated exceptional generosity and commitment to bettering the lives of others through a loan in order to purchase property to house the Olympia Child Care Center, later forgiving this loan and making it a gift to the children of Washington; and
     WHEREAS, Dr. Philip Vandeman continued to volunteer at the Olympia Child Care Center, including teaching children life skills such as gardening and bread-making; and
     WHEREAS, Dr. Philip Vandeman was honored with the Gladys Burns Human Service Award in 2003 to recognize a lifetime of advocacy work for children; and
     WHEREAS, Dr. Philip Vandeman never failed to give his time and talents and along with it hope and encouragement to all those who were injured, physically or mentally; and
     WHEREAS, Dr. Philip Vandeman was deeply admired for his dedicated service to his family, friends, colleagues, patients, and community; and
     WHEREAS, Dr. Philip Vandeman represented the epitome of a well-rounded and dedicated physician, husband, father, and community leader;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives honor Dr. Philip Vandeman for his years of service to children of Washington, his personal and professional integrity, his limitless dedication and generosity, and for his total commitment to improving the lives of others; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Chief Clerk of the House of Representatives to the family of Dr. Philip Vandeman.