Coworkers: Don Kremke

The Ozinga culture is something we try to pass on to each coworker, and when we expanded our operations into the South Florida market in 2017, we knew we needed our new coworkers to truly recognize and understand Ozinga’s purpose and values.

One way to accomplish this was to surround these individuals with tenured coworkers who could lead by example, such as Don Kremke.

“When it came time to expand to Florida, we wanted to send someone who lives and breathes the Ozinga culture,” said Jeff Bonnema, Vice President of Fleet Management. “Don helped me build the parts department in Indiana, so I knew I could count on him.”

Don Kremke, Fleet Manager in South Florida, has been with Ozinga for more than 36 years, starting in Indiana, then Illinois, and now Florida. His positive attitude and good spirit are what made Jeff decide Don would be the right fit in Florida. “Don is always happy to hear from you,” said Jeff. “He goes above and beyond in fleet, operations and safety, which is a plus for our coworkers and customers.”

When asked how he is, Don’s response is a short but thought-provoking, “I am blessed,”—something he learned from a dear friend who was a pastor.

“He taught me that if you say it enough you will believe it. It puts a lot of smiles on people’s faces and I like to say it. And I believe it—I wouldn’t say it if I didn’t truly believe it,” said Don.

And while positive and cheerful, Don is also very humble. “I don’t think I do anything different than anyone else should.” Instead, he aligns his work ethic with the company’s culture. “I have worked with a lot of people over the years at Ozinga and we do what it takes. Everyone I have worked with over the years has the same beliefs that this is the way it should be done.”