WHEATLAND — Volunteerism is the heart and soul of many communities, especially rural ones. Platte County’s Marlin Marshall is a working example of a valuable volunteer. He has volunteered at the Laramie Peak Museum for 16 years.
Marshall’s work has included filling in as curator whenever someone cannot cover a shift, accepting donations for the museum displays, cleaning/fixing whenever something needs to be done, making note of the number of visitors, etc. In short, Marshall is there to fill any need that arises. The museum is his pride and joy and he spends tireless hours helping to make it an institution that honors those who have made this community what it is. He strives to encourage the board and patrons to remember the history of this county.

However, the museum isn’t the only venue that has benefitted from Marshall’s dedication. He volunteered at the Services for Seniors Center and the Antelope Gap Grange. As a member of the Grange, he was at one time on the legislative committee to bring up matters important to farmers. He served as master (president) for one term. When he wasn’t volunteering, Marshall worked for Kennedy Engineering learning the surveying trade hands-on.
An organization originated by Jaqueline Kennedy Onassis and Robert Taft Jr. offers the Jefferson Award, which honors community volunteers and promotes an increase in volunteerism, honoring people like Marshall.
In a nominating essay written by Elvira Call, Marshall’s accomplishments were explained. Marshall was not the one selected from Wyoming who went to Washington, D.C., for a recognition reception. Vicki Jasmine, of Casper, was the winner for her work with Relay For Life, in the foster home program and with the American Legion Auxiliary.
Because Marshall was recovering from surgery at the time of the state recognition banquet, he did not get to attend that, either. However, he received a large, framed plaque and was recognized at the 35th annual Meeting of the Laramie Peak Museum on May 14. Marshall is one of the individuals who make a difference, who have made Wyoming and the world a better place through being a tireless volunteer.