The designation of Viterbo University's Ethics Institute in memory of D.B. Reinhart culminated a 30-year relationship between Reinhart and Viterbo.

 

Reinhart was an exemplary business leader and mentor as well as a good friend  and advisor to Viterbo University. "Rhiny," as he was known to his friends, accomplished much during his life. As an entrepreneur, philanthropist, leader, and a "self-made" man, he was inducted into the prestigious Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans. As founder and owner of Gateway Foods, he turned his La Crosse based food company into the largest privately owned food wholesaler in  the country.

 

Despite his success, Mr. Reinhart considered his greatest assets to be his family, his faith, and his community. He was a quiet leader whose presence assured the success of many initiatives and organizations. He consistently promoted ethical decision making and lived a life of integrity. He cared deeply about people, his friends, and his business associates.

 

D.B. Reinhart was the recipient of two of Viterbo's most prestigious honors: the 1980 Pope John XXIII Award for Distinguished Service and a 1990 Doctor of Laws honorary degree.

 

Mr. Reinhart, who died in 1996, is survived by his sons, Rob and John, and daughters, Nancy and Patricia.