Small Town, Big Heart.

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2026 Heart of the Community Grand Marshals - Nick and Mike Runnebohm

These gentlemen are father and son, they worked together for many years in their family business, Runnebohm Construction, and they are both retired now. Nick Runnebohm graduated from Waldron High School in 1957, while MIke graduated in 1979. Nick married his wife, Judy, in 1967,and they raised their family of four on Prescott Road. Nick started Runnebohm Construction in 1968, and this company grew to be highly successful, doing industrial and commercial work on new buildings, additions, and remodels. Nick was known as a wise, honest, and modest leader, who always acknowledged that his success was only possible because of the many wonderful people he worked with and the close-knit community in which he lived. Nick shared his professional knowledge by forming the Indiana Metal Builders Association, a collegial group that focuses on construction-related advancement and networking. He also helped to establish ABC, aka Associated Builders and Contractors.

Mike grew up in his dad’s footsteps, taking on the role of project manager/estimator. Under Mike’s leadership as president, Runnebohm Construction continued its legacy of excellence with the motto, “Solutions, not Surprises,” and the business continued to expand.

In 2017, Mike married Marcy, who served here in Waldron as pastor of Waldron United Methodist Church from 2013-2017. Marcy worked closely with Waldron Elementary to provide tutoring and holiday help, and she also served on several other boards in Shelbyville.

Nick and Mike Runnebohm have been chosen grand marshals in the “Community” category for our Freedom Fest parade for an important reason other than their professional success. They were chosen because they used their success for good, by supporting many charitable organizations both here and abroad. Nick supported Catholic Relief Services and traveled to Cuba multiple times to help the impoverished people there. Runnebohm Construction, under Nick and Mike’s leadership, also donated money locally to non-profits such as Girls, Inc., SCUFFY, Salvation Army, Waldron’s Freedom Festival, the Shelby County Historical Society, and many others. Most recently, the family opened the “Nicholas & Julia Runnebohm Early Learning Center” at the Intelliplex Center. Over 100 children are currently enrolled at the center, and 43 are attending the summer camp for ages 6-12. What an awesome legacy!

In retirement, Nick and his wife Judy enjoyed spending time not only at home but also at their house in Cape Coral, Florida until Judy’s passing. Nick has been an avid hunter, fisherman, and woodworker.

Mike retired in February of 2026, and he and Marcy celebrated with a trip to England, Scotland, and Ireland. Next on the list is a possible trip to Australia. Mike still enjoys hanging out with his best buddies from high school days; and he also enjoys watching the Pacers, Fever, Colts, and Reds. He and Marcy frequent Trivia Nights in Indy, too.

As we wrapped up our chat, I asked Mike if he had anything that he would like to share; and he humbly said that he considers himself fortunate to have been able to do the things he did and to help people who need it.

That’s what it’s all about, Mike- sharing your time, talent, and treasure with others! Congratulations to Nick and Mike Runnebohm, for doing exactly that! See you on the Fourth, driven in the parade by Ronia Cox!