Lonzo Saltsman, 80, Grayson County Farmer and Veteran, Dies

Saltsman served in Vietnam and worked for the National Park Service for 23 years before retiring.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Lonzo Saltsman, an 80-year-old farmer and veteran from Smiths Grove, Kentucky, passed away on February 5, 2026 at his home surrounded by family. Saltsman was a lifelong resident of Grayson County who enjoyed farming, hunting, and spending time with his grandchildren. He served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, where he was exposed to Agent Orange, and later worked for the National Park Service for 23 years before retiring.

Why it matters

Saltsman's passing marks the loss of a beloved community member and veteran who dedicated much of his life to public service and outdoor pursuits. His story highlights the lasting impacts of military service and the importance of honoring those who have served.

The details

Lonzo Saltsman was a native of Grayson County, Kentucky who spent his life working on his farm, raising beef cattle, hunting, and enjoying time with his family and friends. After being drafted into the U.S. Army in 1965, he served one year in Vietnam, where he was exposed to Agent Orange. This exposure later resulted in medical problems that contributed to his death. Following his military service, Saltsman began a 23-year career with the National Park Service, 17 of which were spent operating the ferry at Houchens Ferry before his retirement.

  • Lonzo Saltsman was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1965.
  • Saltsman served one year in Vietnam in 1965-1966, where he was exposed to Agent Orange.
  • Saltsman began a 23-year career with the National Park Service after his military service.
  • Saltsman operated the ferry at Houchens Ferry for 17 years before retiring.
  • Lonzo Saltsman passed away on February 5, 2026 at his home in Smiths Grove, Kentucky.

The players

Lonzo Saltsman

An 80-year-old farmer and veteran from Smiths Grove, Kentucky who enjoyed working on his farm, hunting, and spending time with his family.

Nathan Saltsman

Lonzo Saltsman's late father.

Essie Stewart Saltsman

Lonzo Saltsman's late mother.

Robert Saltsman

Lonzo Saltsman's late brother.

Perneila 'Penny' Day Saltsman

Lonzo Saltsman's wife.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 PM Monday at Smiths Grove Cemetery. Visitation will take place 3:30-7:00 PM Sunday and 9:00 AM-1:30 PM Monday at Gravil Funeral Home.

The takeaway

Lonzo Saltsman's life and service as a farmer, veteran, and National Park Service employee exemplified the values of hard work, community, and dedication to the outdoors that have long defined rural Kentucky. His passing is a loss felt by all who knew him.