JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — Jim Eddleman of Perryville is among the senior citizens being honored with the 2025 Senior Service Award, which will be presented by Missouri Lieutenant Governor David Wasinger during a special ceremony Monday to recognize 10 exceptional Missourians’ remarkable contributions to their communities through volunteerism and public service.
Eddleman is being honored for founding the Missouri Veterans Memorial in Perryville.
The event will be held Monday at 11:00 AM in the Capitol Rotunda, and is open to the public.
“As Missouri’s official advocate for seniors, it is my honor to recognize those who continue to give back to their communities long after retirement,” said Lt. Governor Wasinger. “These ten individuals represent the very best of Missouri—selfless, hardworking, and dedicated to improving the lives of those around them.”
The Senior Service Award is presented annually to Missourians aged 60 and older who exemplify the spirit of service. Nominees are selected based on their volunteerism, impact on their local communities, and commitment to civic engagement.
This year’s honorees are:
- Jim Eddleman – Founder of the Missouri Veterans Memorial, Perryville
- Mark Lueckenhoff – Executive Director, Heartland Resources, Ewing
- Bob and Sandy Marshall – Alzheimer’s Association Advocates, Poplar Bluff
- Mary Wesche – Volunteer with Aging Ahead & Long-Term Care Ombudsman, New Haven
- Diana Butler – Operations Leader, PACE, St. Louis
- Ray Reinagel – Volunteer High School Softball Coach, Kelso
- Susan Wendleton – Laugh and Lunch Organizer, Carthage
- Al Luetkemeyer – Former Mayor & Long-Term Community Advocate, St. Elizabeth
- Frankie Hinkle – Community Volunteer, Independence
- Marianne Baker – Chair of Welcome Committee & Volunteer Pianist, St. Louis
Lt. Governor Wasinger launched this year’s nomination process earlier this spring, inviting community leaders, nonprofit organizations, and legislators to highlight seniors making a difference across the state.
About David Wasinger
David Wasinger is a lifelong Missourian, raised in Hannibal, Missouri. He graduated from the University of Missouri-Columbia and Vanderbilt University School of Law, building a career as an attorney who stood up to powerful special interests and fought for justice for everyday Americans. Wasinger resides in Brentwood with his wife, Colleen, and their two sons.