[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 195 (Tuesday, November 17, 2020)]
[Senate]
[Page S7035]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   REMEMBERING SCOTT IRVING PEEK, SR.

 Mr. RUBIO. Madam President, today, I honor the life and legacy 
of Scott Irving Peek, Sr., who passed away on November 10, 2020 at the 
age of 94. Known to many as Scotty, he was raised in Jacksonville, FL, 
with a strong work ethic that carried him through a storied life and 
career. After high school, Scotty served in the U.S. Merchant Marines 
during World War II. He then went to the University of Florida on a 
track scholarship in 1945; however, his service to our Nation took 
precedence, and he served in the U.S. Army from 1946 through 1948. He 
then returned to UF, where he played both football and track and in 
1952 earned his degree in physical education, health, and recreation.
  After college, Scotty heard the calling for public service and began 
a career on Capitol Hill, serving as an aide to Florida's U.S. Senator 
George Smathers. His advice and counsel was lauded, and he quickly 
became an integral member of Senator Smathers' team and family. He 
served his State and Nation with honor. It was in Washington, DC that 
he met his wife, Lillian Barretto, and perhaps his greatest 
accomplishment, together they raised six children: Nancy, Rosemary, 
Scott Jr., Catherine, William, and George.
  After returning to Florida, Scotty started a public relations firm 
and enjoyed a successful career in many ventures, including real 
estate. If you knew Scotty, you knew he was passionate about his family 
and the University of Florida. He served in multiple capacities for the 
UF Foundation, and that incredible work was honored by three UF 
Presidents.
  Through his devotion to his wife of 65 years, children, 
grandchildren, great grandchildren, family and friends, there is no 
doubt that Scotty left a mark on this world. I honor his life and 
continued legacy.

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