"Bill" Moser, Staunton's 2023 Citizen of the Year

Pictured is 2023 Citizen of the Year: the late Bill Moser, Staunton's "Santa's Helper".

The 2023 Staunton Citizen of the Year was awarded to the late Bill Moser of Staunton, Illinois. The award was presented to his wife Ellen and daughter Dawn Rae at the annual 2023 Staunton Holiday Walk.

Bill was best known for being Staunton's Santa's Helper. This year would have marked Bill's 30th anniversary of being the chief Santa Helper for the City of Staunton. Bill started his trek as Santa's Helper over 62 years ago when his sister asked him to play the part for her young son. From then on, Bill perfected the role until his death in September 2023.

Bill retired from Illinois Power/Ameren after 42 years of service. After retirement, he spent his time doing construction & handyman work; did consulting work for Ameren; worked for the City of Staunton; served as a bartender at TC's Tavern & Mr. T's Tavern, both in Staunton; and volunteered his time with various community events. He was a member of the Granite City Aerie #1126 Fraternal Order of the Eagles since 1962, and was an honorary member of Concordia Hall in Staunton.

He played and coached the Men's Softball League with the Eagles for years, he loved bowling, golfing, and fishing, but his favorites were whatever his "Kids" were participating in.

He enjoyed traveling and adventure, spending time with family and friends, but his true passion was the joy he brought to so many throughout his 62 years of being "Santa's Helper".!