Roger Moser, the CEO of Moser's Foods, didn't really understand why he was such a big deal.
Moser, an Auxvasse native, was selected as the Kingdom of Callaway Supper's 112th president during the annual event in Fulton Tuesday evening.
"I don't know why I was selected," Moser said. "I just go to work, do my job and treat people well."
Moser, who isn't typically recognized for wearing a suit and tie, made an impact on the local community many didn't want to ignore. Despite graduating Auxvasse High School in 1965 with no desire to continue his education, Moser quickly became an entrepreneur tycoon and spread his skill throughout Callaway.
He opened his first business, a gas station, in Auxvasse at age 19 after taking out a $500 loan to purchase inventory for his business.
"That's where I got my start," Moser said.
He began branching out and eventually had 12 gas stations, which he continued to operate until 1985. That was just three years after opening his first grocery store in Fulton. Now, Moser has nine grocery stores in his name throughout mid-Missouri.
Looking back, Moser said his success came from being able to spot a deal.
"You don't have these kind of plans at 19," Moser said. "It just doesn't happen like that. Some people have street smarts, like me, and that's not something you can teach."
Others saw his endeavor to improve the local economy during the recession of the early 1980s as a major contribution to the workforce and overall well-being of Callaway.
"He's a sharp businessman and very humble in being selected," Dan Tucker said. "He employs and helps a lot of people who are in need."
The supper's 111th president, Ron Atkinson, considers Moser as a dear friend and "like a brother." He agrees Moser was the right person for the part, noting Moser created a welcoming atmosphere in his store that encourages local organizations and charities to ask for help. He also played an instrumental role in reviving local little-league baseball.
"He's supportive of the local organizations and charities, and he will be a fine representative for the community," Atkinson said. "He's a very deserving person and has done more than his fair share for Callaway County."