HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 2017-4624, by Representative Kirby

WHEREAS, Melanie Dressel was born to Bob and Phyllis LaPlant on September 2, 1952, in Colville, Washington; and

WHEREAS, She learned the importance of family, hard work, and community while working in her family's jewelry shop; and

WHEREAS, After graduating from Colville High School, she attended the University of Washington and graduated with a degree in Political Science; and

WHEREAS, Her family values took her off of a path towards politics and into the world of banking; and

WHEREAS, She raised two boys with her best friend and husband, Robert (Bob) Dressel Jr., and despite their busy schedules, the family had dinner together every night; and

WHEREAS, She was a compassionate and strong leader that rose above stereotypes that limited women in the banking industry; and

WHEREAS, Female representation in business and entrepreneurship was important to her, and she mentored several aspiring female entrepreneurs; and

WHEREAS, As the CEO of Columbia Bank, she led the bank during its growth into the second largest Washington-based banking company by market value; and

WHEREAS, She cared about each and every employee and the importance of community was felt by those who worked with her; and

WHEREAS, Melanie's mission in life was to support the welfare of others through her philanthropy and volunteer work; and

WHEREAS, Melanie served as Chair of the Boards of Mary Bridge Children's Foundation, Bellarmine Preparatory School, and Tacoma/Pierce County Chamber of Commerce; and

WHEREAS, Melanie further volunteered her time and served on the boards and executive committees for various organizations, including the Tacoma Art Museum and the United Way of Pierce County; and

WHEREAS, Melanie was a pillar in her community and the rock of her family; and

WHEREAS, Melanie Dressel passed away unexpectedly at the age of 64 leaving behind her husband, two sons, two daughters-in-law, and two grandchildren;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State House of Representatives honor the life and accomplishments of Melanie Dressel; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives commend Melanie's dedication to her family, her entrepreneurial spirit, and her philanthropic pursuits; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives acknowledge Melanie's contributions to the city of Tacoma, Pierce County, and the State of Washington.

 

I hereby certify this to be a true and correct copy of

Resolution 4624 adopted by the House of Representatives

March 10, 2017

 

 

 

 

__________________________

Bernard Dean, Chief Clerk