John Saltsman

Mr. John Saltsman, age 69 of DeFuniak Springs passed away Tuesday, February 14, 2012 at the family residence. He was born October 7, 1942 in Panama City the son of Richard and Melvia Loraine Saltsman. Living in South Walton John graduated from Walton High School with the Class of 1960. He then attended Florida State University and joined the United States Air Force during the Viet Nam Crisis. After his tour of duty ended he returned home and assisted his parents in the operation of their store, South Walton Superette. In 1980 he went to work for Liberty National Life Insurance Company, a position he held for over 30 years until recent ill health forced his retirement from the company. John was very active in community affairs and served in many organizations, but closest to his heart was his association with Walton County ARC where he served in many capacities. John was a member of First Baptist Church of DeFuniak Springs.

Among survivors are his wife Becky Steele Saltsman. His children, Tara Grignano and husband Mike of Dothan. Jason Saltsman and wife Amanda of Niceville. Patrick Saltsman of Santa Rosa Beach and Angela Saltsman of Ft. Lauderdale. His brother, Steve Saltsman and wife Teresa of Gambrills, Maryland and his sister Joyce Sunday and husband Steve of Point Washington. His mother-in-law and father-in-law Don and Mary Steele of DeFuniak Springs and his brothers-in-law Tim Stelle and wife Barbara and Ricky Steele. Five grandchildren survive Luca, Toni, Kylee, Kaitlyn and Kensington.

Memorials may be made in John Saltsman’s memory to ARC, Post Office Box 813, DeFuniak Springs, Florida 32435 or to one’s favorite charity. The family will receive friends, Friday, February 17, 2012 from 6 until 8 P.M. in Jerry Evans Chapel. Funeral services will be held Saturday, February 18, 2012 at 1:00 P.M. in Jerry Evans Funeral Home with Dr. Bobby Tucker officiating. Burial will follow in the Steele-Saltsman plot in Magnolia Cemetery with full military honors.