Senate Resolution No. 2575

BY: Senator HARCKHAM

CELEBRATING the life of Luke Joseph Rathschmidt,
devoted family man, meritorious veteran, and
distinguished member of his community

WHEREAS, There are certain outstanding members of our community who,
through their selfless commitment and dedication, have served to better
the quality of life in our community and have had a measurable positive
impact on the lives of its residents; Luke Rathschmidt was one such
individual; and

WHEREAS, It is with profound sorrow and deep regret that this
Legislative Body records the passing of Luke Rathschmidt, noting the
significance of his purposeful life and accomplishments; and

WHEREAS, Luke Joseph Rathschmidt of Mahopac, New York, died on
Saturday, May 18, 2024, at the age of 38; and

WHEREAS, Born on January 28, 1986, to James Rathschmidt and Rene
Skelly, Luke Rathschmidt's larger-than-life personality and jovial
warmth touched everyone he met; and

WHEREAS, A proud veteran of the United States Army, 82nd Airborne
Division, Luke Rathschmidt served his country with honor and courage,
including a tour of duty in Iraq; his time in the armed services was a
significant chapter in his life and shaped the man he became; and

WHEREAS, Luke Rathschmidt's life was marked by his ability to form
deep and lasting connections with those around him; he was fiercely
loyal and could turn any situation into a moment of joy; he lit up every
room he walked into, and he would be the first one to tell you that; his
sense of humor was uniquely his; and

WHEREAS, In addition to faithfully serving his family and country,
Luke Rathschmidt was the driving force behind the creation of United for
the Troops, a vital organization dedicated to making life easier for the
brave men and women serving overseas; he was also an active member of
VFW Post No. 5491; and

WHEREAS, Luke Rathschmidt is survived by the love of his life, Tracy
Hascup, and their children, Jaelynn and Brandt, who were the lights of
his life; he also leaves behind his father, James Rathschmidt and his
wife Patty ("Ma"), as well as his mother, Rene Skelly; he was a beloved
brother to Teresa Reuter (Brian), Timothy, James, Denise (Dan), Kathleen
(Bobby), Tracy (Mike), and Michael (Jen), as well as an uncle to his
nieces and nephews, whom he adored; his extended family included Tracy's
siblings, Pamela (Mike), Joshua (Jordan) and Elijah, who will all miss
his presence dearly; and

WHEREAS, Luke Rathschmidt's infinite selflessness and benevolence
will shine on through his family's vivid and happy memories; his insight
and strength will forever serve as a beacon of love, light and hope to
the countless lives he touched; and

WHEREAS, His life was a testament to the power of kindness and the
strength of familial bonds; his legacy is one of compassion,
camaraderie, and an unwavering commitment to those he held dear; he will
be deeply missed and truly merits the grateful tribute of this
Legislative Body; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
celebrate the life of Luke Joseph Rathschmidt, and to express its
deepest condolences to his family; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of Luke Joseph Rathschmidt.