Madison Reporter

For 93 years, Don Strohmenger has been a significant figure in Sun Prairie, where he was born and raised. An alumnus of Sun Prairie High School, Don graduated in 1949 after participating in basketball, football, and FFA. Despite being a shy farmboy, he was unexpectedly crowned prom king during his junior year.

After high school, Don joined his family's dairy farming business in the Sun Prairie area. In 1956, he married Eva Rebholz, and they had six children: Bob, William, Richard, Linda, Daniel, and Karen. All of their children attended schools within the Sun Prairie Area School District.

Don recalls a time when Sun Prairie was much smaller. He remembers landmarks like McGovern’s bar at Bird Street and Main Street as marking the town's edge. His father played saxophone in the local city band that performed weekly on what is now the site of the Bank of Sun Prairie.

In 1986, Don began driving buses for the Sun Prairie Area School District and continued for 31 years. Even after retiring from dairy farming in 1998 with his wife, he drove buses for Kobussen and SPASD for another 19 years.

Driving some of his grandchildren to school was one of Don's favorite parts of his job. He enjoyed attending their football games or plays when not on duty. Students often greeted him warmly outside school hours.

Although Don did not always realize his impact on students, holiday gifts were clear signs of appreciation. Coaches preferred him as a driver due to his knowledge of routes and reliable nature. His dedication made him a cherished figure within the district.

Don led by example and hoped to inspire those around him: “All I wanted for my kids was to go to school, be good students, and just be good people. I always tried to be the best I could,” he said.

Reflecting on how he'd like to be remembered, Don stated: “It’s something to be loved by your peers... People used to make fun of me for always carrying pockets full of nails and screws—they’d call me a ‘walking hardware store.’ But I just wanted to help.”

Throughout his life in Sun Prairie—from student days through decades as a bus driver—Don has remained dedicated to family and community. His kindness and service have left lasting impressions on many who knew him.

The Sun Prairie Area School District expresses gratitude for Don's years of service: "On behalf of the Sun Prairie Area School District," they thank him "for the positive mark he has left on our district and community."

If you know an SPASD alum with an interesting story worth sharing, contact socialmedia@sunprairieschools.org.