[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 12 (Wednesday, January 19, 2022)]
[Senate]
[Page S349]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        REMEMBERING RUTH SCHEER

 Mr. MARSHALL. Madam President, I rise today to honor and 
memorialize a true representation of Kansas values. Mrs. Ruth Scheer 
departed this Earth on January 4, 2022, after a long life full of 
faith, family, service, and community.
  Ruth was born and raised in Wichita, KS, where her parents, Clyde and 
Edith, provided a childhood full of love and support. She quickly 
picked up a love for music, beginning with the accordion before she 
turned 10. Her musical efforts, nurtured by her parents, continued to 
grow as she did. Ruth's talent and dedication were rewarded by the 
opportunity to perform in the National Piano Playing Auditions and 
winning multiple piano diplomas throughout high school and college. Her 
love of music and the arts continued as she started a family with her 
husband, Harold. She taught her children to play various instruments 
and sing. She even led the family to perform multiple operettas in the 
community as the ``Scheer Delights.''
  Beyond music, Ruth also inspired children by publishing seven 
children's books. Each book contained different messages, but at the 
heart of her literary philosophy was finding the best version of one's 
self through God's guidance. These books have undoubtedly touched many 
lives, and I appreciate that she spent her career bringing such a 
wonderful sentiment to life.
  Ruth practiced what she preached by finding the best version of 
herself and employing her time and talents with an impressive number of 
prominent organizations throughout Wichita. Highlights of her 
involvement include the First Evangelical Free Church, 3-time president 
of the Thursday Afternoon Music Club, member of the Alpha Beta Mothers 
Club, and she even received the Kansas Mother of the Year Award.
  In my own life, my parents showed me the importance of community and 
staying involved. A strong, connected community benefits its members by 
fostering happiness and success. Ruth embodied what it means to be a 
community builder, mother, and teacher. Wichita is a better place 
because of her efforts. She is a role model everyone should strive to 
emulate in their own communities. I ask my colleagues to join me in 
remembering Ruth Scheer and celebrating a life well-lived.

                          ____________________