[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E705]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF JEAN PULSCHER

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. DUSTY JOHNSON

                            of south dakota

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, July 20, 2026

  Mr. JOHNSON of South Dakota. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 
life and legacy of Laura Jean Pulscher, of Dell Rapids, South Dakota, a 
devoted wife, mother, accomplished musician, educator, woman of faith, 
and courageous advocate whose extraordinary life touched countless 
people across her community and beyond. My thoughts are with her family 
as they recognize the first anniversary of her passing.
  Laura passed away on July 10, 2025, after a nine-year battle with 
amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a devastating and fatal 
neurodegenerative disease.
  Laura met every challenge in her life with determination, grace, and 
unwavering faith. A gifted musician, writer, and leader, she dedicated 
her talents to serving others through ministry, education, and 
community engagement. Whether leading worship, mentoring young people, 
homeschooling her children, or encouraging others facing adversity, 
Laura consistently put the needs of others before her own.
  Even as ALS progressively stole her ability to speak and move, it 
never diminished her determination to serve others. Laura continued to 
organize family activities, support her children's education, write and 
publish a book about her faith journey, maintain connections with 
friends and family, and offer encouragement to others facing hardship. 
Her resilience stands as a powerful testament to the strength of the 
human spirit and the profound difference one person can make in the 
lives of others.
  Laura's life is a powerful reminder of both the extraordinary courage 
of people living with ALS and the urgent need to advance research and 
care for those affected by this devastating disease.
  We extend our deepest condolences to her husband, Toby; her children, 
Malcolm, Oliver, and Mercedes; her parents, Jay and Sharon Brosius; and 
all her family and friends who mourn her loss while celebrating a life 
exceptionally well lived.
  May Laura Jean Pulscher's legacy of faith, service, courage, and love 
continue to inspire all who have the privilege of hearing her story, 
and may her memory forever be a blessing.

                          ____________________