In Memoriam of Don Galbreath

Submitted by Galbreath Family Charities, Inc.

In the tapestry of life, some threads stand out more vividly than others, weaving a story of resilience, kindness, and leadership. Don Galbreath is a name that will resonate with reverence and admiration in the history of Winamac, as he left an indelible mark on our community and the world. As we remember and honor him, we reflect on the legacy of a man whose contributions extended throughout Pulaski County and beyond.

Don Galbreath’s journey began in Winamac, where he was born to Chester and Orilla (Lincoln) Galbreath, and graduated from Winamac High School in 1949. The second child of the family, Don, started working on farm equipment in his father’s blacksmith shop. He showed a knack for the business and soon began inventing and expanding operations.

In time, he founded Galbreath Inc. and Galfab Inc. in Winamac. For over 60 years, Don was an innovator in the waste handling industry and was nationally recognized for inventing the most user-friendly roll-off hoist in the industry. Working with other local individuals over the years, he is credited with seven patents. In a 1974 interview with the Pulaski County Journal, Don said his business has grown because of the willingness to take a chance.

Whether in the boardroom, the community, or the charitable sector, Don’s leadership style was marked by a rare blend of strategic vision and compassionate decision-making.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Don was deeply committed to local philanthropy efforts. His benevolent spirit manifested in numerous charitable initiatives, which sought to leave Winamac a stronger community.

Among his first community activities was support of Pulaski Memorial Hospital, where he served on the board of directors. In a 1993 Pulaski County Journal article, Former PMH Board President Rita Mrozinski said, “His dedication is unbelievable. I have known him to fly in for a PMH Board meeting, and fly back to his own business meeting that could be anywhere in the U.S. Or he would drive across the state and back that same evening to attend a hospital board meeting. He has never been too busy for the hospital.” Don extended his support to the hospital by assisting in purchasing equipment and donating property. As the hospital grew, Don purchased an office nearby to help them expand their services for a lease of only $1 a year.

Next, Don focused on enhancing the town of Winamac. He supported the creation of the Winamac Industrial Park and donated land to support the development of new businesses and to encourage corporations to enter the community. As the town grew to the north, Don converted his farmland to create the North Plaza. When wastewater was an issue for factories south of town, Don paid to connect factories to the town sewer system.

Identifying opportunities to donate land to enhance the quality of life in the community was another of Don’s abilities. Working with the Pulaski Health Foundation Inc., he donated the land behind the Winamac Plaza to build Riverwood Commons Low Income Housing for seniors 55 and older. Don and his late wife Dee then donated the land at the corner of Monticello and Washington Street to create Veterans Memorial Park. When the local Presbyterian Church was irrevocably damaged following a strong storm, Don donated land for a new church to be constructed.

Don recognized the importance of recreational activity and its benefits to the community’s health. This was evidenced in the time he spent rehabilitating the Moss Creek Golf Course in the 1980s, his financial support of the swimming pool project, and construction of a pergola at the new splash pad in Winamac. He was also a supporter of the Winamac Fire Department. Don’s support of the Winamac Town Park is evidenced by his construction of a shelter at the park and his financial commitment to the Veterans Memorial Swinging Bridge rehabilitation efforts. It was essential to Don that this community icon last another 100 years.

A hometown couple, Don and his wife Dee, were committed to supporting the local history of Pulaski County. The Galbreaths have contributed substantial financial resources to the Pulaski County Historical Society through various initiatives. Most recently, donating land and the funding to build a new museum. The Galbreaths will also honor their gift to the Pulaski County Community Foundation through the endowment established to support the Society’s future operations.

Don and Dee were committed to supporting the creation of the Pulaski County Community Foundation. In 2002, they created a fund to provide financial support to the Community Foundation’s operations in memory of their daughter, Rhonda Jean. The Galbreath Scholarship for Winamac and West Central seniors entering the field of Music, Vocation, or Liberal Arts was also established at the Foundation.

Don’s generosity even extends to the location of the town’s water supply. When the Town of Winamac’s 1920 water well needed to be replaced, the town worked with a hydro-geologist to explore local options. Shortly after the search began, Don donated the farmland to build two new wells for the town’s residents. All town residents utilize this incredible gift of daily access to healthy water, which is expected to last 200 years.

Reflecting on the legacy of Don Galbreath extends far beyond the list of tangible achievements. His legacy is woven into the community he uplifted and the countless individuals who continue to be inspired by his example. Don’s impact on the world is a testament to the enduring power of kindness, leadership, and a genuine commitment to improving his hometown.

In honoring Don Galbreath, we celebrate a well-lived life dedicated to making Winamac a better place. His legacy will serve as a guiding light for future generations through his establishment of the Galbreath Family Charities, Inc., which will continue his local philanthropic efforts. In the aforementioned Pulaski County Journal article, Don is quoted as saying he is aiming for a higher goal and feels, “much more can be accomplished.” Thank you, Don, for leaving our community a better place and for the means to accomplish even more in the future through Galbreath Family Charities.

Pulaski County Journal

114 W. Main Street
Winamac, IN 46996

(574) 946-6628
 

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