Aging Well: Joe Trapp is recipient for August

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- The Aging Well recipient for August came out of retirement to make sure the school that has meant so much to his family is cared for.

Joe Trapp retired after 37 years of inspecting grain elevators in the area. The reason for coming out of retirement is that his wife, who is the assistant principal at St. Francis Xavier School, informed him that the school was having trouble finding and keeping a custodian, and the aging building had a big need for consistent oversight.

Joe Trapp answered the call and now serves the school as its custodian. He said the need prompted him to help in any way he could.

"I told my wife I would give it a try," Trapp said. "I take pride in my work, and the kids are getting to know me, and they say, 'Hi' to me when they see me."

Trapp was nominated by a teacher in the building, and she and her class were present when he received the award. The whole class gathered in the gym and congratulated "Mr. Trapp" with cheers and applause.

To nominate someone 55 or older for the monthly Aging Well award, go to newspressnow.com/agingwell.