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John Saltsman Obituary
Nashville, TN
John Bruce Saltsman, age 87, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, September 1, 2017 in Nashville, TN.
He was born in Loretta, KY, on August 28, 1930. Bruce was a contractor with McDowell-Saltsman Construction, Saltsman Construction, and Rodgers and Saltsman Construction before his appointment as Tennessee's Commissioner of Transportation. He was an active parishioner of Saint Henry's Catholic Church.
Bruce is preceded in death by his father, John Edgar; his mother, Mary Leona; his brothers John Edgar, John Wesley, Joseph Daniel, John Edgar II, David Leon; and his sisters Nancy Mercedes, Hilda, Shirley Mary, Rita Louise, Martha Lillian, Mary Leona.
Survivors include his wife Edna Elaine, his five children Timothy Wayne, Joseph Gregory, Terry Wayne, Victoria Lynn, John Bruce "Chip," along with his grandchildren, Madeline Elaine, Emma Elizabeth, Gregory Ross, and Chelsie. He is also survived by his brothers Charles Robert, William Richard; and his sisters Margaret Berry, Donna Ann.
Bruce was a fierce golf fan. He also followed Vanderbilt University, and the University of Tennessee basketball and football programs.
Services will be held Tuesday, September 5, 2017 from 9:00 until 11:00 at Saint Henry's Catholic Church followed by a Funeral Mass starting at 11:00 A.M. The burial will follow at Harpeth Hills Gardens on Highway 100.
The family would like to thank the caregivers of Alive Hospice, and his many loving friends.
In lieu of flowers the family respectfully requests memorial contributions to Saint Henry Catholic Church, 6401 Harding Pike, Nashville, TN 37205, and Alive Hospice, 1718 Patterson Street, Nashville, TN 37203.
Visit the online obituary: www.marshalldonnellycombs.com
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Memories and Condolences
for John Saltsman
Sponsored by Marshall-Donnelly-Combs Funeral Home - Nashville.
Bob Minter
August 28, 2020
Great memories of Bruce as TDOT Commissioner. He was an advocate for airports. We sat in his office one day after hours telling jokes for nearly 2 hours!
Rusty Beazley
September 7, 2017
While quite late, Terry, you and your family are in our thoughts & prayer!
Bob MInter
September 6, 2017
Tennessee aviation interests loved and respected Commissioner Bruce Salesman. He will be remembered as a truly great leader of TDOT. Bruce would shoot straight and waste no time making decisions . He elevated Aeronautics to Division level and held the Tennessee Aeronautics Commission in the highest regard.
I will always be thankful that we became friends and we will miss him.
Rest in peace, Bruce. You earned your place in heaven!
Win Petrone
September 5, 2017
I only had a chance to know Bruce shortly in the last few years, but enjoyed his company and insight into the highway industry and life in general.
Although we didn't talk a lot, I will certainly miss being able to call and catch up with him from time to time.
Carol Simpson
September 4, 2017
Mr. Saltsman was a key member of the Tennessee government for many years and left quite an impact on our highway system. More important and personal to me is that he is the father of Tim Saltsman, a close friend of mine for nearly 30 years. Deep condolences to Tim and his daughter Chelseac as well as the extensive family. Victoria and Greg are also longtime acquaintances. Both Tim and Chelsea are kind, intelligent and independent people. I am blessed to have them in my circle of Life.
Paul Ladd
September 4, 2017
When I was a reporter, I had several occasions to talk with Mr. Saltsman. He was always very open, called it like he saw it, and never took himself too seriously. When I later worked at a different department in the Administration, I would see him at various events, and he was kind and gracious every time. He was a joy to be around, and had people smiling and laughing. A fine man and great Tennessean. Chip, thinking of you and your family.
Chuck and Rita Saltsman
September 4, 2017
Chuck and I were so sorry to hear about Uncle Bruce. Prayers for all during this sad time.
Tom Rowland
September 4, 2017
This is hard to believe. I didn't know Bruce was spike, but I had wondered what happened to our frequent visits. I so enjoyed him coming to my office where we old catch each other up on politics. As TDOT Commissioner, he was good to Cleveland . Bruce was one I would never hesitate to call when my city needed something. You didn't have to wait for an answer, he gave it to you straight forward. I liked that in him. Rest in peace Bruceandtank you for letting me be your friend. Sandra and I are praying for the family to find peace and comfort during this time.i'm thankful Bruce came my way.
Tom Rowland,
Mayor city of Clleveand,Tn.
Connie Gilliam
September 4, 2017
Commissioner Saltsman was never afraid to give compliments or speak his mind. He always took up for his (TDOT) employees. Commissioner Saltsman and Asst. Commissioner Tommy Hart will always be remembered as great leaders in the history of TDOT.
Luanne Grandinetti
September 4, 2017
A Birthday card I gave him one year read, "when the maker made you, he broke the mold." So true. Bruce Saltsman will always be one of most central figures in my life. My deep felt condolences to all of you I knew, Elaine, Terry and Chip and to all of his family he talked about each time we caught up. Rest in sweet peace dear friend.
Barbara Campbell
September 3, 2017
Bruce Saltsman was a fantastic Commissioner at TDOT . When I worked for the Information Technology Department at TDOT, it was always an honor to work on Mr. Saltsman's computer. He is going to be missed by everyone. I will keep you in my prayers.
Jerry & Lynnet McElroy
September 3, 2017
Elaine, Bruce was a good friend. Our thoughts & prayers are with you.
Margaret Mahler
September 3, 2017
We have lost a great man. He will always The Commissioner. I pray his soul may rest until I see him again.
Elaine, my thoughts and prayers are with you and the rest of your dear family.
JOE GUY HAGAN
September 3, 2017
BRUCE WAS CLASSMATE,FRIEND FROM OUR BIRTH IN , 1930 ,IN LORETTO KY,AND YOUR LIVING FRIENDS ,CLASSMATES SEND OUR PRAYERS TO BRUCE ,ELAINE AND FAMILY ! MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL !
Jim Jeffers
September 3, 2017
So sorry to hear about Bruce's passing. I worked for a lot of Commissioners at TDOT, but Bruce was by far my favorite. He will always be my Commissioner. So sad to hear of his passing.
My thoughts and prayers are with Elaine at this time.
Jim Jeffers
September 3, 2017
Oh how sad I was to learn about the passing of our past Commissioner and friend Mr. Saltsman, he was truly a remarkable Commissioner and just a great man all the way around. He will truly be missed. My sympathy goes out to his family and to all of us who knew him. God bless you all.
RIP friend and boss at TDOT. Peggy Wilson-Davis
Debbie Greene
September 2, 2017
Elaine and Chip you are heavy on our hearts. Bruce was an amazing man and friend to all. May you feel the love of God today and always. Arles and Debbie Greene
Sharyn Pelych
September 2, 2017
Elaine, I am so sorry to hear about Bruce passing. He was a kind and wonderful man. You are in my prayers! Sharyn Pelych
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