Carla Cooper has been a faithful servant of her family, her students, her church, and her community for decades. She and her husband, Bob, have shared 50 years of marriage and raised their three children—Kristin, Courtney, and Zach—in the Salisbury community. Today, they are blessed with 10 grandchildren who continue to be one of Carla’s greatest joys.

Carla devoted 44 years to elementary school counseling, serving students for 4 years in the Belton School District, 1 year at St. Joseph School, 30 years at Salisbury Elementary School and 9 years in the Keytesville School District.  Throughout her career, she became known for her loving heart, compassionate spirit, and unwavering commitment to the well-being of children. She always made time for students who needed a listening ear or a safe place to land. Her influence extended far beyond the school walls, and she remains deeply loved and remembered by generations of former students. In recognition of her dedication, Carla was honored as the Northeast Missouri Elementary Counselor of the Year.

For more than 30 years, Carla has also been an active member of Salisbury First Baptist Church. Her servant’s heart continues to shine as she bakes pies and cookies for others, visits the sick and shut-ins, leads Bible studies, and faithfully invests in the lives of those around her.

Carla’s life is a testament to kindness, faithfulness, and quiet service. Her character has truly stood the test of time, and her legacy is reflected in the countless lives she has encouraged, comforted, and inspired.

Paul Foglesong

Marine, Pastor, Public Servant and a Man Who Never Lost His Sense of Adventure

Paul Foglesong wore many titles during his lifetime: United States Marine, First Sergeant, pastor, Salisbury Ward Representative, Park Board member, husband and father. But perhaps the best way to describe Paul is as a man who spent his life serving others while never losing his sense of adventure—or his tendency to find a little mischief along the way.

Born in Moberly, Missouri, Paul was the youngest of three children born to George and Nadine (DeWeese) Foglesong. His early years were spent around Asbury, where the hills and family farm provided plenty of room for an adventurous boy to roam.

Even as a child, Paul had a flair for storytelling. He was known to occasionally walk with a limp he claimed came from “being injured in the War,” only to forget about his supposed injury when another adventure presented itself.

When Paul was 10, the Foglesong family moved to Chino, California, but Missouri apparently wasn’t easy for him to leave behind. Childhood friend Paul Adams later recalled that the two sixth-graders once ditched school and attempted to hop a train, hobo-style, with plans of heading back to Missouri.

That attempt didn’t quite work out.

Years later, however, Paul would find his way back.

A Life of Service

In 1971, Paul began one of the defining chapters of his life when he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps.

His military career took him around the country and across the world. In 1978, while stationed in Barstow, California, Paul and DeNeil (Manke) Foglesong welcomed a daughter, Cora Lee.

During Paul’s third stint in Okinawa, Japan, another important chapter began when he met Tina. The two married and would share 36 years together.

Paul eventually rose to the rank of First Sergeant before retiring from the Marine Corps in Yuma, Arizona, in 1991.

His retirement ceremony included an especially meaningful moment for the Foglesong family. During the ceremony, Paul’s father was presented the Prisoner of War Medal for his combat service during World War II.

Retirement from the Marines didn’t mean Paul was ready to settle into a quiet life.

He and Tina packed up their dog, Bear-Bear, and their cat and headed for Honolulu, Hawaii, where Tina had been transferred. Paul worked for three years as a purchasing agent at Kapiolani Women’s and Children’s Hospital.

And because simply living in Hawaii apparently wasn’t adventurous enough, Paul spent some of his free time hang gliding from the cliffs of Makapuu.

The couple later moved to Meridian, Mississippi, before Tina’s retirement in 1997 finally brought them back to Missouri.

They made Salisbury their permanent home.

Finding a Home in Salisbury

Paul didn’t simply live in Salisbury. He became part of it.

His varied talents and willingness to serve led him to work at Scholastic Books and the Walmart Distribution Center while also becoming involved in local government and community service.

Paul served on the Salisbury Park Board and later represented residents as a Salisbury Ward Representative.

But one of the roles that meant the most to him came through his faith.

Paul served as a Methodist Lay Leader and later spent seven years as pastor of Asbury Methodist Chapel.

His ministry extended beyond the walls of one church. Paul shared the Word of God with people throughout the surrounding communities, and the sight of “Preacher Paul” riding his Harley down the road on his way to church became a familiar one.

Those who knew him remembered a man capable of offering gentle kindness and comfort to someone grieving the loss of a loved one—and a man equally capable of flashing an impish grin and dimple when he was about to get into a little mischief.

That combination seems to have followed Paul throughout his life.

From a Missouri boy trying to hop a train home, to a career Marine serving his country, to hang gliding over Hawaii, riding his Harley to preach on Sunday morning and serving the residents of Salisbury, Paul Foglesong rarely seemed interested in taking the ordinary route.

Through all those adventures, service remained a constant.

He served his country, his church, his community and the people around him.

Paul Foglesong died October 1, 2021, at the age of 68, in the Salisbury home and community he had chosen to make his own.

His life took him from Missouri to California, Japan, Arizona, Hawaii and Mississippi before eventually bringing him full circle.

Back to Missouri.

Back to service.

And finally, home to Salisbury.

Kayla Grimshaw (McCloud), a Salisbury native, is the daughter of Bill and Christy McCloud. She is the wife of Tim Grimshaw and the mother of Riley Grimshaw.

Dedicated to serving her country, Kayla enlisted in the Missouri Army National Guard as a 31S Army Satellite Communications Systems Operator-Maintainer with Company C, 135th Signal Battalion in Carrollton, Missouri. She later served with Company C, 935th Aviation Support Battalion, where she advanced to the rank of Staff Sergeant (E-6).

During Operation Enduring Freedom, Staff Sergeant Grimshaw deployed overseas and served with distinction and honor. Her dedication, professionalism, and courage reflected great credit upon herself, her units, and the Missouri Army National Guard.

Kayla’s commitment to duty, service, and country continues to be a source of pride for her family, friends, and the Salisbury community.

Information provided by SSG Bill McCloud, Missouri Army National Guard (Retired).

Terry Hulett

For decades, Terry Hulett has dedicated her life to education, service, and the Salisbury community. Whether in the classroom, through volunteer organizations, or in local leadership, she has continually invested in the lives of children and families, helping shape future generations.

Before making Salisbury her home, Terry began her teaching career in Fairfax, Missouri, and later taught for 2 years in Mountain View, Missouri. She eventually joined the Salisbury R-IV School District, where she spent the majority of her career inspiring students and encouraging a love of learning. After retiring from teaching in 2013, her commitment to education did not end. She continues to serve as a member of the Salisbury Board of Education, helping guide decisions that impact today’s students and tomorrow’s leaders.

Beyond the classroom, Terry has always believed that a strong community is built through service. Over the years, she has been actively involved with Girl Scouts, 4-H while her daughters were growing up, her church, P.E.O., the Salisbury Chamber of Commerce, the Salisbury Historical Society, and Child Welfare. Her willingness to serve has made her a trusted member of countless boards, committees, and organizations throughout the community.

Those who have served alongside Terry often describe her as the steady, calm voice in the room. She is known for listening carefully, offering thoughtful guidance, and helping groups move forward with quiet confidence. She’s also affectionately known as the “forever treasurer.” Organized to the core, Terry keeps a dedicated bag for each organization she serves, filled with everything she needs so she’s always ready for the next meeting. It’s a simple habit that reflects the dependability, preparation, and commitment she brings to every role.

While her accomplishments are many, Terry would likely say her greatest joy comes from family. She treasures every opportunity to spend time with her grandchildren, Cleo and Calvin, who continue to remind her of the importance of faith, family, and investing in the next generation.

Terry’s legacy is not defined by a single achievement but by a lifetime of faithful service. Through her calm leadership, unwavering dedication, and willingness to quietly step in wherever she is needed, she has helped strengthen Salisbury in ways both seen and unseen. She embodies the spirit of community, proving that lasting impact often comes not from seeking recognition, but from faithfully serving others, one meeting, one student, and one act of kindness at a time.

Jeana Latamondeer was a mischievous redhead with a sharp sense of humor and a surprisingly refined brand of sarcasm for an eleven-year-old. She loved horses, dogs, her family and friends, and the great outdoors—sometimes in that order—and brought an undeniable spark to every day she lived. Jeana was fiercely loyal, endlessly funny, and absolutely the last person you wanted to cross; her payback was known to be sneaky, well planned, and delightfully brutal in the way only she could pull off. 

In June 2004, Jeana suffered a devastating fall from her beloved horse, Flicka, and passed away from brain trauma. Her loss left her family, friends, and community heartbroken. Blaze orange—her favorite color—has since become a symbol of her family’s enduring love and a bright reminder of the vibrant girl they carry with them always.

Jeana had just completed fifth grade, and her classmates from both St. Joseph School and Salisbury R-IV never forgot her. In a touching tribute, they saved an empty chair for her at their high school graduation, a gesture that reflected the lasting imprint she left on their lives.

Though her time on earth was short, Jeana’s spirit continues to shine through the next generation. Her nieces and nephews inherited pieces of her personality, and in a twist that felt like Jeana’s humor at work, her niece Brecklyn arrived a few days earlier than planned in 2020 to share her Aunt Jeana’s birthday of April 21.

Jeana remains deeply missed, but her joy, wit, and wild-hearted love for life continue to ripple through the people who knew her best. Her legacy is one of laughter, color, and an unforgettable spark that time can’t dim.

Larry Latamondeer was known for his quick wit, easy humor, and unwavering devotion to his wife and children. When he received the unexpected diagnosis of male breast cancer in March 2014, Larry faced the battle head-on. Even while navigating treatment, he worked tirelessly to spread awareness that breast cancer affects not only women, but men and their families as well.

Larry continued to live life to the fullest throughout his journey. In his final weeks, he was able to take a Dream Foundation trip to Pittsburgh with his family to watch his beloved Pittsburgh Steelers—an experience he cherished deeply. Three weeks later, on December 26, 2016, Larry transcended his illness and passed away, winning his battle in his own way.

In October 2014, Larry’s work family and close friends held a fundraiser in his honor, an act that humbled him and strengthened his resolve to give back. From that wish, Larry’s Warriors Foundation was born. Upon his passing, a memorial fund was established to support cancer warriors in Chariton County. Within 10 years, the foundation has distributed more than $250,000 in assistance, carrying forward Larry’s mission of compassion, awareness, and support.

Larry is deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His legacy—rooted in humor, courage, generosity, and dignity—continues to impact lives and inspire others each day.

Leland Linneman

Leland Linneman was born on January 30, 1961 to Wernell and Ruth Linneman. From a young age and throughout his life, Leland was a man of strong faith with a deeply rooted passion for both sports and agriculture.  He was an active member of FFA and remained involved in Salisbury Young Farmers for many years. 

As an adult, Leland found great joy in giving back to his community, dedicating countless hours to coaching youth sports, particularly basketball and baseball.  He loved the game, but loved sharing that passion with others even more. 

Leland was also a lifelong learner.  Eager to deepen his knowledge in farming and agriculture, he researched and tried out new methods and approaches, happy to share what he learned with those around him. 

His willingness to learn, teach, and help others reflected the way he lived his life. For Leland, the belief that actions speak louder than words was more than a phrase—it was a way of life.

Kind, compassionate, selfless, and patient – these are the qualities that Leland will be remembered for by residents of Chariton County and beyond.  His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched, the knowledge he shared, the young people he coached, and the countless acts of kindness he gave, without expecting anything in return.

One of the greatest lessons Leland leaves behind is to take the time to learn, take the time to listen, and above all, take the time to enjoy life with the people you love. 

Merlin and Monica Maag

Merlin was born July 23, 1924 son of Joseph E. and Clair C (Becking) Maag.  He married Monica Koehl of July 2, 1949 at St. Joseph Church, Hurricane Branch near Marceline, Missouri.

He was an area farmer and a fourth-degree Knight of the Knights of Columbus Council #4679.  He was also a member of the American Legion Post #0391, Moose Lodge #776, he was a member of Plumbers and Pipefitters Local #562 for 40 years, in previous years he was the manager of the Shell Service Station in Salisbury, operated his own lime truck business and was a board member of the Rainbow Garden Housing Board – Senate Bill #40.  He had been a member of the St. Joseph Parish Council and the Rural Fire Department.  Merlin was a veteran of World War II, having served in the U.S. Army Corp.  After his retirement he enjoyed working on his farm, gardening, canning, caring for his cattle and spending time with his family and friends.

Monica was born October 21, 1926 daughter of Frank Xavier and Anna (Vater) Koehl.  Monica operated the Chariton County License Bureau for several years, worked for the City of Salisbury, and had worked as a deputy sheriff and juvenile officer for Chariton County.  Monica was part of the St. Joseph Catholic Church Alter Sodality and of the Red Hats Club.  Monica loved to sew and do crafts. She made matching outfits for the whole family for the Bicentennial Celebration in Salisbury and won first place.  She had a unique way of creating so many beautiful decorations and clothing.  Monica enjoyed fishing at all hours of the day and night, listening to her scanner, dancing and spending time with family and friends.

The couple had five children – Mliss Sanders, Mona Botkins, Mike, Mark and Marvin Maag.

Dave and Linda Millar came to live in Salisbury in 1980 with their two children Patrick and Julie. Linda worked for the Chariton nursing home and Dave worked for the city of Salisbury. They are currently owners of Millar Electric LLC. and now Linda also works for the local grocery store. They enjoy their grandchildren and the quiet life in the country where they live.

February 22, 2006 – August 14, 2024

In Loving Memory of Zander Lee Munden

Zander Lee Munden, 18, of Salisbury, Missouri, was tragically killed in a car accident on Wednesday, August 14, 2024.

Born on February 22, 2006, in Columbia, Missouri, to Aaron and Jenny (Wilhelm) Munden, Zander was an adventure from the very beginning. From the moment he was born, his parents knew he was going to keep them on their toes—and he spent the next 18 years proving them right.

A 2024 graduate of Salisbury High School, Zander loved hunting, fishing, archery, working, and spending time with his friends and family. If you were looking for him, you could usually find him uptown goofing around with his friends, sighting in his bow at the shooting range, or in the shop with his dad working on their next project. He had a huge heart, was always willing to lend a helping hand, and had a way of making people laugh wherever he went. His hugs were the kind that made you feel safe, and he never missed an opportunity to tell the people he loved, “I love you.”

Zander is survived by his parents, Aaron and Jenny Munden; his siblings, Jacob Wilhelm, Sarah McCollum, Zachary Munden, and Morghyn (Joshua) Moseley; his grandparents, Ernest Munden, and Jerry and Merrye Wilhelm; his nephew, Kingston Martin; his uncles, Jerry (Jennifer) Wilhelm Jr., Jeff (Lindsay) Wilhelm, Tracey (Becky) Munden, and Howard (Joyce) Syler; several cousins; his very special little buddy, Caysen Syler; his adoptive family member, Ileen Dunivent; and his loyal dogs, Draco and Rex.

In Heaven, Zander was reunited with his paternal grandmother, Chris Munden; his uncles, Matt and Eric Wilhelm; his nephew, Jayden Wilhelm; and his best friend, London White.

Zander was laid to rest at Fairview-McCurry Cemetery, just north of Salisbury, Missouri.

Where You’ll Still Find Zander

You’ll find him in the first day of deer season. In a bowstring snapping toward the target. In the sound of laughter echoing uptown. In sawdust on the shop floor beside his dad. In the loyalty of Draco and Rex. And in every act of kindness that reminds us of the heart he carried.

You’ll find him in every project, every shared story, and in every hug that lingers just a little longer or every “I love you” that’s spoken before saying goodbye.

As long as stories are told, bows are drawn, projects are built, and friends gather uptown, a part of Zander will always be here.

Growing up on a farm as the eldest child of Virgil and Latricia Nanneman values were instilled at an early age. One of those values was responsibility.

February 2, 1972 the draft lottery took place, two days before my 19th birthday. My lottery number, assigned by birthdate, was 23 – a sure sign that I would be drafted. At that time, I went to a recruiter and talked about my options. The recruiter came to our home and the papers were signed at the living room table. I entered the Army on the “Buddy System” along with Eric (Rick) Farnen on June 1, 1972.

At that time, I was sent to Fort Leonard Wood for Basic Training. Upon completion of Basic Training, I was tapped to meet a recruiter who was a Representative of the Old Guard of the Army. After the Selection Process the Secret Service arrived in Salisbury to complete the background on me before I was officially a member of the Old Guard.

After the Secret Service cleared me I was sent to Fort Meyer, Virginia in September, 1972 and was now a member of the Old Guard of the Army.

AIT (Advanced Individual Training) was held at Camp AP Hill, Virginia.

During September, 1972 – June, 1975 I participated in over 300 funerals. Approximately 100 of which were full honors – including World War II Generals. I also participated in two State Funerals for Presidents of the United States – Harry S. Truman and Lyndon B. Johnson. It is extremely rare to participate in one State Funeral let alone two.

The most publicized funeral that my Unit participated in was for Chief Justice Earl Warren. We were not only on national TV but were included in Time Magazine in July, 1974.

During my time in the Old Guard, I had White House clearance and was on duty when President Richard M. Nixon resigned.

I was a casket bearer in over 200 funerals along with other responsibilities, such as March Escort or Cordon.

On June 1, 1975 I received an Honorable Discharge from the Army and returned home to my roots. I have maintained contact with six members of my platoon and we talk frequently and try to get together as often as possible.

My love for Country, God, and Family have never waivered and I am extremely proud of my children: Audrey, Mallory and Marshall as well as my grandchildren: Maddie, Mason, Lydia, Baron and Rhett. Growing up in Salisbury has always helped me to be steady as the roots of my foundation are here.

Jim Ramsey

A Lifetime of Service to Salisbury and Chariton County

For decades, Jim Ramsey was a familiar face throughout Salisbury and Chariton County. Farmer, businessman, auctioneer, county official, mayor, school board member and community volunteer were just some of the roles he filled during a lifetime deeply rooted in public service.

Jim was born January 24, 1928, in Bynumville, Missouri, to Gilbert and Maria (Washam) Ramsey. He graduated from Bynumville High School in 1945 and married Eloise “Lois” Hepworth on January 3, 1947, in Bynumville.

Jim also answered his country’s call to service, serving in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict.

After returning home, Jim built a life that included farming and a variety of business ventures. He worked as a car salesman and auctioneer and was the owner of Big Jim’s Trading Post for 30 years.

But Jim’s impact extended far beyond his working life.

In 1975, he became Chariton County Clerk, beginning a 20-year tenure in the office that lasted until 1995. His involvement in local government later continued in Salisbury when he served as mayor from 2003 to 2007.

Public office was only one way Jim served his community.

Over the years, he served on the Salisbury School Board and the Chariton County Health Department Board and was a board member for Rainbow Gardens. He served as President of the Salisbury Chamber of Commerce and President of the Chariton County Sheltered Workshop.

He was also director of the Salisbury Senior Center, continuing his involvement with the community and its residents.

Jim was a member of Bynumville Christian Church, Cleve Iman VFW Post #4926 and American Legion Post #391.

Taken individually, each of those positions represents a commitment of time and service. Taken together, they tell the story of a man who spent much of his adult life involved in the place he called home.

From agriculture and business to county government, Salisbury city government, education, health, economic development and services for seniors and individuals with disabilities, Jim’s fingerprints could be found across many aspects of community life.

Jim and Lois raised three sons — Bill, Mark and Brian — and their family grew to include seven grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

Jim Ramsey died August 8, 2012, at the age of 84.

His legacy in Salisbury isn’t tied to just one office, organization or accomplishment. Instead, it can be found in decades of showing up, getting involved and serving wherever his community needed him.

For Jim Ramsey, community service wasn’t simply something he did.

It was a way of life.

George and Nayna Stallo

George was born in Wein, Missouri on September 10, 1938, son of Frank and Rose (Wersinger) Stallo.  George came from a large family being the second born of 17 children.  He married Nayna (Knowles) on June 6, 1959.

George was a farmer his whole life working on his family farm raising and milking dairy cattle as a child.  As a teenager he worked for other area families on their farming operations.  Once he purchased his own farms he raised pigs and cattle and have several achers of row crop.  He worked at the local Mill (Ag Center) in Salisbury for 42 years nailing his boots to the door when he left.  George was the president of the Rural Fire Department and a member of the Old Car Club.  George and Nayna had a Convertable 1951 Ford Crown Victoria that they enjoyed driving in parades with their grandchildren and going on trips with the Old Car Club.

George was devoted to his farm and loved to play cards and spend time with his family.

Nayna was born August 20, 1940 in Prairie Hill, Missouri the daughter of Frank and Goldie (McSparren) Knowles. Nayna was a bookkeeper and clerk for Sutter’s Rexall Drugstore and then Red Cross Pharmacy for 30 years.  She was the display person for all the Hallmark cards and Christmas Ornaments and was often referred to as the Hallmark Lady.  She was a member of the Alter Sodality, The Red Hat Club, The Old Car Club and a board member of the Salisbury Senior Center.  She was the guiding force in the farming operation and loved farm life.  She loved to play cards, read, sew, embroidery, gardening and caned everything she raised.  She loved her shoes and collecting antiques.  She especially loved being a mother and grandmother.  To her, family was everything.

They had two children Mark Stallo and Shelley Stallo Maag who still reside in Salisbury and are continuing their farm operation.

Reuben Leroy Tisdale, affectionately known as “Ruby” or “Rube,” was born September 4, 1941, in Gilliam, Missouri to Ruben Leroy Tisdel and Inez Geraldine Jackson. He was the fourth born of six children.

He joined St. Luke AME Church in Salisbury, Missouri at an early age. Several Pastors served while Reuben attended St. Luke. In 1997-2003 Pastor Eraina Aseme was assigned to serve as Pastor, and Reuben was instrumental in the witness of the church being involved and active in the community. During this time, he served in various church office positions such as Steward Pro Tem, Trustee, Treasurer and was a member of the Finance Committee. He even provided building maintenance and kept the lawn mowed and trimmed. Pastor Aseme describes Reuben as a “born leader.” He remained at St. Luke’s until it closed. He later became a member of the Open Door Christian Church in Brunswick, Missouri where he remained until his passing.

Reuben attended Lincoln Elementary School in Salisbury. Upon the integration of segregated schools, he entered Salisbury High School. It was there where he honed his basketball skills as a member of the high school basketball team.

In 1959, Reuben married Annia Lee Tooley and to this union their daughter was born, whom they refer to as their “Heart.”

Reuben worked several jobs after high school, but his career began in 1967. He began work at SEMCO Incorporated where he started as a basic laborer. After several years of hard work and determination, he became an apprentice, then successfully moved on to earn the title Journeyman Sheet Metal Worker. He eventually retired from SEMCO in March 2000 after 33 years of loyal service.

After his SEMCO retirement, he was not finished. Reuben began a new venture as he started a lawn care business. On May 27, 2004, he opened his shop, A1 Lawn Care. He was dedicated to his business and his customers until the end.

Reuben was involved in many organizations in Salisbury. He was a Scoutmaster in the 1970’s and 1980’s. He served as Alderman for Ward 1 from June 2000 to April 2010. He was a member of the Lions Club and a volunteer firefighter.

He was also a Freemason with the title of Past Master of Dalton Pride Lodge F&AM Prince Hall Affiliated in Dalton, Missouri. Reuben later became a member of Rising Sun Lodge F&AM Prince Hall Affiliated in Columbia, Missouri.

Reuben was an avid sportsman and enjoyed a multitude of sports. He organized, coached and played on basketball, softball and bowling teams. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing.

On Sunday, July 27th, Reuben passed on into eternal rest. He is preceded in death by his father Ruben Tisdel and his mother Inez Jackson; his two brothers, Raymond Jackson and Roy “Tick” Miller; his two sisters, Vaughncille Hayes and Margaret Jackson.

He is survived by his wife, Annia Tisdale; his daughter, Kennetha “Nita” Tisdale; his sister, Janet Gail Jackson; his grandson, Jordan R. Tisdale-Brown; his sister-in-law, Dora Jane Miller; his cousin who he called sister, Kaye Davis; and his cousin, Janice McDaniel. He is also survived by his nieces: Carla Hayes, Madeline (Larry) Yancey, Ginger Miller, Rana Hayes, Lisa (Andale) Gross and Gina Glasgow; his nephews: Jeffery Hayes, Jerry Hayes, Charles Miller, Derwin (Lesha) Glasgow and Jeremy Jackson; a host of great nieces, great nephews, other relatives, church members and dear friends.

Charles Weiseman

Charles Weiseman was a lifelong Salisbury-area resident whose life was marked by service to his community and country.

A World War II veteran, Charles served in the United States Army, attaining the rank of sergeant. After returning home, he worked as a carpenter with Sanders Decorating of Salisbury for approximately 50 years.

Charles also devoted nearly half a century to protecting his hometown as a member of the Salisbury Fire Department. During his 47 years with the department, he served 20 years as a firefighter before becoming fire chief, a position he held for another 27 years.

Charles retired as Salisbury Fire Chief on May 1, 1995, leaving behind a remarkable record of service to the community he called home.

His decades as a carpenter, firefighter and fire chief reflected the kind of quiet commitment to Salisbury that helped shape the community for generations.

Eric Ryan Wilhelm of Salisbury, age 22, died Sept. 6, 1997 at Moberly Regional Medical Center. He had developed heart problems while attending high school and received a heart transplant July 19, 1992.

He was born Aug. 7, 1975 in Brookfield, son of Jerry Leo and Karen Mae Piatt Wilhelm.

He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Salisbury and graduated from Salisbury High School in 1993. Eric enjoyed the sports of football and golf. He was a devoted Kansas City Chiefs fan and rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on his favorite team.

Survivors are his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Wilhelm of New London, Iowa, and Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Jackson Jr. of Salisbury; special friend Danny Helmich of Warrensburg; three brothers, Jerry Wilhelm Jr. and Matthew both of Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, and Jeffrey Wilhelm of New London, Iowa; one sister, Jenny Wilhelm of Salisbury; one step-sister, Tiffany Paige, Salisbury; his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Paul Harlin, Marceline; step-grandparents, Clarence Jackson and Gloria Jackson, Salisbury; and Wilmer and Dorothy Cox, Salem, Iowa; three nieces; one nephew; and several aunts and uncles.

He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Calvin Piatt; grandparents, Justus Leo and Edna Wilhelm; and one aunt.

Funeral services were held Monday afternoon at the First Baptist Church in Salisbury. Rev. Ron Bray conducted the service. Music was furnished by soloist Connie Hulett and organist Karla Britt.

Burial was in Eastlawn Memory Garden, Salisbury, Missouri.