On Tuesday, July 18, 2023, Sullivan Bank hosted the friends and family of John W. Waller as the park behind the Sullivan Downtown location on Main Street was dedicated to John Waller and his service to the community of Sullivan.
The hosting of children and adults to the park area was a vision that Waller had for many years and the park was established under his leadership as a cooperative effort between Sullivan Bank and the City of Sullivan.
During his many years as a leading Sullivan businessman, John Waller and wife, Esther Waller, served the community in countless ways. Among his accomplishments are that Waller served as the city attorney for 25 years and worked with the city to bring many industries to the town. He was instrumental in establishing what is now Missouri Baptist Hospital of Sullivan. The Sullivan Golf Course was founded under his tutelage and John lived on the property until his passing in November of 2020.
Waller joined Sullivan Bank in 1960 and served as its president from 1966 to 1991, when he hired Milt Branum, Jr. to lead the bank. John remained as Chairman until his retirement.
Bank President, Mike Hoffman addressed the group, saying “The City of Sullivan and Parks Department, especially, has been great to work with on this project. John Waller was a real friend to this community and the bank is proud to dedicate this park area in his memory.”
