Ron Dustman, Staunton's 2016 Citizen of the Year

Pictured is Staunton's 2016 Citizen of the Year, Ron Dustman.

Ron Dustman, a lifelong resident of Staunton and who has served as a role model for its citizens throughout his life has been awarded 2016's Citizen of the Year!

Ron is well respected of the local Staunton business community. He is very customer oriented and has been a strong supporter of the businesses of Staunton. Ron's accomplishments for the City of Staunton include his long time as Staunton's local busimessman. He worked full time at Russell's Furniture Store for many years and now works part time.

As an active member of the Staunton Fire Protection District, Ron served the fire department for over 35 years and now serves as an honorary member. During his fire department career, He served as chief for 4 years, assistant chief for 9 years and also as a secretary and president of the volunteer organization for several terms. Even though Ron is no longer an active firefighter, he still participates in all the volunteer fundraising events and assists with support functions during significant SFPD incidents.

As a member of the Staunton Fire Protection Board, Ron currently serves as the treasurer for the board of trustees for the SFPD. He has held this position for 18 years.

Ron is also an active member of St. Paul United Church of Christ. Ron is not only an active member of the congregation, but has served on the church board in many different capacities. He regularly participates in church volunteer activities.

He has also been a supporter of his children's grade school & high school programs at Staunton. Throughout his kids' years in Staunton Schools, Ron and his wife have always attended and supported their children's activities in school. Whether it was a band concert, football game, volleyball game, basketball game or any other activity, Ron and Carla Dustman always attended and were model parents - supporting not only their children, but the other students who were participating. Today, Ron still continues to attend many school events and functions to support his grandchildren.

Ron now currently serves as one of the volunteer instructors for the grade school Patriot Club program. In this role, Ron teaches students to respect our country and our veterans.

As a supporter of volunteer organizations, Ron has helped with many fundraising events, blood donations and out reach programs. Ron is one of the first people to volunteer and one of the last to leave when projects conclude. He is not afraid to roll up his sleeves and jump into the thick of things, or stand back and take leadership to ensure tasks are completed. There is a sincere effort in every project or organization of which he is involved.

Congratulations to Ron Dustman, Staunton's 2016 Citizen of the Year!