[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 156 (Tuesday, September 23, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E889]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             HONORING THE LIFE OF MICHAEL SCOTT SCHUERLEIN

                                  _____
                                 

                            HON. RICK LARSEN

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 23, 2025

  Mr. LARSEN of Washington. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life 
of Michael Scott Schuerlein, who passed away on June 12, 2025, at the 
age of 81.
  Michael was born in Berea, Ohio, and was the only child of Frederick 
and Adah Schuerlein. He graduated from Baldwin Wallace College, where 
he was a proud member of the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity. After moving 
west in 1967, Michael and his first wife built a home on Lake Sammamish 
and raised their children in Washington state.
  Over the course of more than 50 years as a homebuilder, Michael's 
creativity and commitment to craftsmanship shaped communities across 
the region. His work was showcased in the ``Street of Dreams'' homes of 
the 1990's, and his passion was evident in his Whidbey Island home, 
which he filled with antiques and personal treasures.
  Michael's life was also defined by service to others. He relentlessly 
dedicated his time and talents to advancing affordable housing on 
Whidbey Island, including his work with the Tiny Houses in the Name of 
Christ (THINC) project and as a member of the Island Roots Housing 
board. His belief that affordable housing is critical to the well-being 
of the Langley community continues to guide local efforts today.
  Beyond his professional work, Michael was an avid sailor and a 
generous friend. He was known for his weekly reflections and 
encouragement to those around him, often sharing the motto he lived by: 
``Thoughts become things . . . Choose the good ones.''
  Michael is survived by his daughters, stepdaughters, granddaughter, 
companion and a wide circle of friends and colleagues. He will be 
deeply missed by his family, his fraternity brothers, his sailing 
community, his fellow Langley Coffee Curmudgeons and all who benefited 
from his generosity and wisdom.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life and 
legacy of Michael Scott Schuerlein, whose creativity, generosity and 
service strengthened communities across Northwest Washington and 
beyond.

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