Donald E. Galbreath

Donald E. Galbreath, 91, of Winamac and Columbus, passed away peacefully on Sunday, Dec. 10, 2023, at the Belmont Health and Rehabilitation Center in Columbus.

Born on April 2, 1932, in Winamac, he was the son of the late Chester and Orilla (Lincoln) Galbreath.

He was a 1950 Winamac High School graduate.

Don started working in his father’s blacksmith shop in Winamac on farm equipment and ended up being an innovator in the waste handling industry for over 60 years when he founded Galbreath Inc. and Galfab Inc. in Winamac. He is nationally recognized for inventing the most user friendly roll off hoist in the industry.

He was instrumental in many community projects through the years and donated his time and money for the good of Pulaski County. He recently formed The Galbreath Family Charities to continue to benefit the community in his absence.

Survivors include his wife, Darlene “DJ” Galbreath of Columbus; son, Stephen Galbreath [Deborah] of Plymouth; grandchildren: Douglas Galbreath [Wendy], David Galbreath [Sheila] and Gregory Galbreath; great-grandchildren: Aidan Galbreath, Logan Galbreath, Evan Galbreath and Faith Galbreath; step-daughter, Laura Jaehnke; and step-grandchildren: Rashell Jaehnke and Mario Jaehnke; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Delores “Dee” Galbreath; daughters, Rhonda Galbreath and Vickie Galbreath; brother John Galbreath; and sisters: Betty Kloenne, Shirley Howard and Myra Jordan.

Don’s celebration of life will be held on Saturday, Feb. 3, at the historic Vurpillat Opera House (Celebration Station), 101 E. Main St. Winamac. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the time of service at 1 p.m. Burial will follow at Winamac Cemetery, McKinley addition.

Memorial contributions can be made to Galbreath Family Charities, PO Box 342, Winamac, IN 46996.

Don’s online guestbook is available and condolences can be shared with the family at www.ransfuneralhomes.com.

(Pulaski County Journal — Jan. 24, 2024)