05/11/2026
Congratulations to Pella Rotarian Don Ringgenberg for receiving the Guardian of Integrity Award at this year's District 6000 Conference. Within the framework of Rotary, Don truly embodies the motto “Service Above Self.”
Don has been a Rotarian since November 1984, joining the Pella Rotary Club in November 2007. He is a Paul Harris Fellow and has served as Club President twice, as well as being named Rotarian of the Year twice. A retired school administrator, Don enjoys playing golf and going on long walks. He is truly a people person; if you're having a bad day, he has a remarkable ability to lift your spirits without even realizing it.
Don brings a can-do attitude to every service project he leads or supports. He organizes the Rotary Club's coat drive each fall for Crossroads of Pella. He actively seeks out and introduces new club members, leveraging his strong networking skills within the community. Currently, he is involved in starting our Pella Rotary Companion Club, utilizing his networking talents along with his active attendance and support. Don also supports our annual Pannekoeken serving efforts at the Kerstmarkt, our winter Christmas Market, and he contributes to the Pella Tulip Time festivities by preparing the tour wagons and assisting during the tours.
In addition, Don is a passionate supporter of our club's efforts to improve Rotary Park and its amenities. He participates in club workdays to support our local Habitat for Humanity organization. He also leads our annual Christmas wreath sales, which are a significant fundraising effort for our club. Don's leadership and consistent volunteer work are infectious, inspiring all of us to strive to be our best. He is a role model and exemplifies the Rotary Four-Way Test. Whenever something needs to be done, Don either leads the effort or supports those who do. He is the ultimate team player, dedicated to giving back to the community.
Each week at our Rotary Club noon meetings, Don assists with setting up the audiovisual equipment and other items needed for the meeting. He is also one of the unofficial greeters, welcoming everyone, including guests. I've rarely seen Don not know someone, whether he truly does or not. He maintains a positive atmosphere and is known for telling great stories—and sometimes repeating them!
