Louise Mussleman
Louise Mussleman has lived in Sequoyah County for nearly 50 years, having moved to the area in 1975. Now, after spending the last decade in Sallisaw, Mussleman, 53, has built a life that revolves around both her professional dedication to helping veterans and her personal love for transforming her backyard into a sanctuary.
Louise Mussleman has lived in Sequoyah County for nearly 50 years, having moved to the area in 1975. Now, after spending the last decade in Sallisaw, Mussleman, 53, has built a life that revolves around both her professional dedication to helping veterans and her personal love for transforming her backyard into a sanctuary.
A mother of three, Mussleman is a proud alumnus of Gore High School, class of 1989. She recalls fond memories of attending Gum Springs Elementary, a school that no longer exists, and proudly graduated from Northeastern State University in 1995.
Despite having deep roots in her local community, Mussleman’s life journey took a few twists and turns, including her marriage to a man from St. Louis who had never lived in the country before they settled in Sallisaw. After seven years of marriage, she says her husband now enjoys the quiet life more than the hustle and bustle of city living.
Mussleman works as a case manager in Supportive Services for Veteran Families, a role that brings her immense satisfaction.
‘I specifically work with homeless veterans or those at risk of homelessness,’ she said. ‘It’s rewarding, knowing that I’m helping those who have served our country in a meaningful way. I get a great deal of satisfaction from what I do.’
Outside of work, Mussleman spends much of her time nurturing her latest passion: her backyard.
‘It’s my oasis,’ she said. ‘It’s where I go to relax.’ Her backyard has transformed into a beautiful retreat, complete with a gazebo, garden gate, birdhouses, solar lights, and a selection of flowers that attract an array of birds. Mussleman’s newest addition is a bird feeder with a camera, allowing her to observe the birds up close from the comfort of her home.
Her two dogs, Rex and Roxxie, along with her mischievous cat, Walter, add to the charm of her backyard haven.
‘They’re great company,’ she said with a smile. ‘It’s a peaceful way to unwind.’
When she’s not tending to her garden or enjoying time with her pets, Mussleman dreams of travel. Having already fulfilled her dream of going on a cruise, she now hopes to explore historical sites across Europe.
‘I’d love to visit places like Paris, Venice, and the Roman Colosseum,’ she shared. ‘There’s something about being able to step into history that fascinates me.’
Mussleman believes in the power of positivity and surrounding herself with like-minded people.
‘When people are interested in solution-oriented thinking, not nitpicking others or running them down, that’s when I can truly be my best self,’ she said. ‘I love being around people who uplift and inspire each other. It’s refreshing.’
A blend of passion for helping others, creating beauty in her home, and traveling the world has shaped Mussleman into a woman who truly embodies the values of service, positivity, and connection. Whether she’s working with veterans or nurturing her own slice of paradise, Mussleman continues to live a life of purpose and joy in the heart of Sallisaw.
Just Folks is Your TIMES way of honoring the regular people of Sequoyah County, recognizing their unique talents, personalities, jobs, abilities, etc. Your TIMES appreciates the cooperation of each Just Folks and the public’s nominations for this feature. If you know of someone you think might be a good story, contact Amie at 918-775-4433.
