In certain moments, we cannot help but stop and reset our definitions, priorities, and maybe even life direction. Time stands still as our daily routine is shaken when we hear someone dear to us has passed away without warning. This recently happened to many Madison Scouts alumni who knew David Wayne Ramthun (1975-1982 alumnus). Anyone who met David would agree that he was a kind, collected, and witty person who led by example during his amazing eight-year marching career in the Madison Scouts. He preceded those years by marching for three years in the Madison Boy/Junior Scouts. Every one of his eleven years, David played baritone and played lead position for almost all those years. He had a sound unique to his voice as he sang through the horn. Interestingly, his tone was the same as his horn when you heard him sing. He truly was born to play that horn. (There were definitely an extra couple of O's in his smooth sound) During some of those down moments that every season has, David would remain calm and quiet. And then, when he spoke, it was thoughtful, meaningful, and direct to the point in a matter-of-fact voice, often with a hint of humor to ease the group's discomfort. People listened when he spoke. True leaders earn that respect over time.

HELP HIS FAMILY: Sometimes, when it rains, it pours! Long-time Madison Scouts alumnus David Ramthun suddenly passed away last February, leaving behind his wife and son. Of course, this sudden heartache has been a hardship for the entire family over the past few months. Saturday night, May 25, the family home was hit by one of the tornados ravaging the south, located near Claremore, OK. Fortunately, David's widowed wife, Roma, his son, David Robert, and their family pets survived the direct hit, but not their home and vehicles. They will need help with the clean-up and recovery. Read more at Go Fund Me and if you haven't already, please consider donating..

On a personal note, David stood up at our wedding over 30 years ago; he was Godfather to one of our sons, and even recently, David played Taps for my father's military funeral around Memorial Day in 2019. He played that trumpet just as well as he played his baritone, flawless and with feeling while standing near the firing squad in formation with our nation's best. Afterward, a few of the service men shook his hand and complimented him on his playing. I am indebted to my friend for those gifts to my family. The bonds we all develop and cement for life in the Madison Scouts are amazing. We are very lucky people! All of us.