
Sheldon Bryant never sits still for very long, but in the past month served as a frequent Santa fill-in, putting on the red suit 14 times, adding cheer to a variety of local events.
He has become well-known throughout the community after moving into the area in 2002. Early on, he was fortunate to meet Sue Heaton, a consummate volunteer who introduced him to many local organizations, including the Prior Lake Optimists Club and Prior Lake Chamber of Commerce. Bryant said Heaton set an example for many in how they can serve the community, and still today, is greatly missed since succumbing to breast cancer in 2013.
“She started me on the road that brought me where I am today,” Bryant said.
“Today” includes participation in the Masonic Lodge, Shriners, Clowns Across the River and Prior Lake Rotary Club. He helps out with TreeHouse, a mentorship program for area teens, and also sponsors two scholarships every year for students entering vocational school upon graduation. He is a co-founder of Smoke Signals which started “The Little Market That Could” farmers market, has worked for the local school system for 10 years and previously volunteered to serve on the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Fire Department.
Bryant, however, may be most known for his daily Facebook posts that document the 22 pushups he does in honor of the estimated 22 veterans who commit suicide each day. A friend told him back in 2016 of their commitment to create needed awareness about veteran suicide by doing 22 pushups, oftentimes in a public setting. She invited Bryant to join him in her mission, which has since become his daily ritual documented on social media. As of Dec. 23, Bryant will have completed 3,061 straight days of bringing awareness to that cause.
As a young man, he was registered for the military draft but never called for active duty. In part, the pushups are also done to honor his parents, both having served in the U.S. Marine Corps.
Bryant’s family includes wife Peggy, four adult children (Shea, Sheldon Michael, Sean and Shyenne), two cats (Mica and Cattie), and two dogs (Talula and Todd). Those who know Bryant would agree he has a quick wit and good sense of humor, as demonstrated in the naming of his six chickens: Bites, Tenders, Rotisserie, Wings, Nuggets and Fingers.
“I get satisfaction from giving back to the community, especially to those who aren’t looking for a handout, but rather a helping hand,” Bryant said. “I’ve found that no amount of money can buy that feeling.”
(Creating a community that is informed, engaged and connected is the mission of Prior Lake News Compass. Readers can expect to see an “everyday hero” featured in upcoming editions, and we ask for your help in nominating local residents who do good, usually without seeking notoriety or public recognition. Email your recommendations to us at: info@plnewscompass.org, and include your name, contact information and reasons for nominating that person.)