Our Opinion: Tom Schweich, "a devoted public servant'

News Tribune editorial

Amid the activity of public life - policy preferences, office operations, political aspiration - a tendency exists to forget that public officials are people who, like us, have hopes and dreams, fears and doubts.

Like many Missourians, we were both shocked and saddened by the untimely death of Missouri Auditor Tom Schweich, who died Thursday from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

He was 54, a husband to wife, Kathy, and a father of two children, Emilie and Thomas Jr. A Republican, he served as both an appointed and elected official in federal and state offices, and recently had announced he would run for governor in 2016, setting up a primary battle with Catherine Hanaway.

His peers in public life praised his service. Among them:

• Democratic Gov. Jay Nixon said: "Tom Schweich's exceptional intellect and unwavering dedication to public service left a legacy that will endure for many years to come."

• Lt. Gov. Peter Kinder, a fellow Republican in statewide elected office, referenced Schweich's "long and unblemished record as a great public servant. As the state's auditor for the past four years he has served Missouri taxpayers with quiet competence and unswerving dedication."

• State Treasurer Clint Zweifel said: "Tom served his state and country admirably, and fought strongly for his values. With his passing, Missouri has lost a devoted public servant."

• U.S. Sen. Claire McCaskill, a Democrat, observed: "He was a good man, and a dedicated public servant, who served our country in so many capacities with distinction and honor. Hug those you love."

In the aftermath of any suicide, invariably, the question is: "Why?"

We have no answer, nor do we care to speculate.

We agree with the senator. This is a time to embrace your loved ones and tell them how much they mean to you.

We also encourage all Missourians to learn more about the signs of suicide.

The Missouri Department of Mental Health has a website, Stop a Suicide Today, www.stopasuicide.org. The subtitle is: "Recognizing and responding to signs of suicide, and what you can do to make a difference."

We join in mourning Tom Schweich's death and remembering his service.

And we urge all Missourians to raise awareness about suicide prevention and resolve to make a difference.