Remembering John Armbruster

The Special Olympics Wisconsin movement recently lost a longtime volunteer and changemaker in his community, John Armbruster.  John and his wife Pat were the starting force behind the start-up of the Ozaukee County Local Program.

“Personally, John was a major influence on my life,” said Phil Konrath with the Ozaukee County Local Program.  “My first coaching experience through Special Olympics Wisconsin was with John and the Owls in basketball.  He taught me to coach the athletes with respect and dignity but also to not be afraid to challenge the athletes.  He made the experience so much fun I continued to coach and moved right into softball and then flag football.”

“My experience with John and Special Olympics Wisconsin was so influential in fact, that I changed my professional life to work with the population we serve; it has been the best overall life change I have ever made,” Phil further explained.

On behalf of everyone within the Ozaukee County community who John served and inspired, Special Olympics Wisconsin expresses our condolences, and our gratitude.