Spellmeyer Named Celestine Distinguished Citizen

Celestine- At this year's Celestine Streetfest, Robert “Red” Spellmeyer was named the 2023 Distinguished Citizen Award recipient.

Robert's deep history of volunteerism in the community was what led the DSA committee to select him as the 2023 DSA winner, say officials.  Red's volunteerism is synonymous with his talent as a grilling and barbeque extraordinaire. Some of these local organizations worth noting would be the Celestine Community Club, Celestine Park, Inc., St. Isidore Parish Council and Knights of Columbs.  

The nominators wrote, "Red is a master of grilling and always works behind the scenes.  We feel that he has shown great dedication and pride in our community of Celestine."  

2023 marked the 31st annual awarding of the DSA, with many past recipients on hand to be recognized. Past winners include; Leonard Heeke, Loretta Humbert, Don Sander, Ottie Betz, Ron Sander, Barney Heldman, Ed Senninger, Mike Klem, Margaret Buechler, Art Kempf, Glenda Reckelhoff, Melvin Betz, Ed Betz, Martha Goepfrich, Pat Hasenour, Clarence Buechler, Jim Sander, Jim Steffe, Joel Johnson, Emil Schroering, the Jim Hohler Family, Kenneth Schnell, Bob Schepers, Mary Rasche, Allen Thewes, Clarence Reckelhoff, Joan Steffe, Tom Heeke, Bob Schnell, Charlie & Rose Glendening, and Chris & Kelly Bieker.

Other nominees for 2023 include Tony Buechler, Holly Epple, and Doug Merkel.