In Memoriam:

Almond Cressman, 1911 - 1999

By Rhonda Westfall

Clinton County loses long-time community leader

Almond B. Cressman, a life-long resident of Olive Township who provided a lifetime of service to his community - passed away April 11, 1999. A farmer all his life, Almond devoted countless hours to a wide range volunteer ventures, ranging from political office to years of involvement with the Grange and Masons.

Almond served as chairman of the Clinton County Board of Supervisors, the arm of county government which predates the current county commission. He was also elected as Olive Township Supervisor, and held appointed positions on a wide range of local, state, and regional organizations which involved planning issues.

"Almond was the Olive Township Supervisor when I first arrived on the county scene as Clinton County Prosecutor," says local attorney, Jon Newman. "He would often drop by the office and chat about things - he always stayed active and interested in politics.

"He wasn't bashful about visiting any government official and expressing his view."

A staunch supporter of the Republican party, the Cressman farm often served as a backdrop for 'photo ops' for various GOP candidates and elected officials over the years.

"Almond held numerous fundraisers out at the farm - he was an ardent supporter of the Republican party for many years," recalls Leon Brewbaker, a Clinton County businessman who was also a friend and political compatriot.

"Any time you needed someone to help, Almond was always willing." Almond's life of service extended to an active involvement with the St. Johns Lodge # 105 F&AM, St. Johns Chapter #45 RAM, and St. Johns Commandry #24 Knights Templar. He was Master of Olive Grange #358, and held numerous local and state offices with the Grange.

On the lighter side, he thoroughly enjoyed being Santa's helper at various community Christmas functions. Dr. Donald Porter, who treated the venerable county resident during his last days, has vivid memories of "Almond as Santa."