Joseph Skeen: “our great state of New Mexico is mourning the death of the gentleman from New Mexico (Mr. Schiff), one of our most…”

“our great state of New Mexico is mourning the death of the gentleman from New Mexico (Mr. Schiff), one of our most distinguished colleagues of this honorable body we proudly call the United States House of Representatives. Steve has been suffering from cancer for nearly a year, and unfortunately this morning his fight came to a tragic end. Since Steve became ill, we all prayed every day for his recovery. We prayed that he would win this tough battle so that he could once again join us in Washington and continue to do the work that he enjoyed and loved. Steve was dedicated to his constituents and worked hard to represent their interests in Congress. Even in the face of this tragic situation, Steve continued to put the needs and interests of his constituents and all New Mexicans at the forefront almost until the very end of his life. Even though his illness forced him to remain in Albuquerque, he continued to spend several hours a day in his district office and working at his home for the people of his district. Steve Schiff, who is survived by his wife Marcia and two children, Jaimi and Daniel, will be remembered with great fondness by the many people whose lives he touched as husband, as father, as friend and neighbor, as U.S. Air Force officer, and a distinguished public servant. Steve was widely respected by everyone, including his political adversaries.”