MITCHELL, S.D. (Dakota News Now) - A Mitchell man is putting the bow on a long and rewarding career.

For more than 40 years, Damon Bartscher has helped keep Mitchell’s Longfellow Elementary School in tip-top shape as a custodian.

He has decided to retire, and many say that his presence in the school hallways made a difference in a number of ways.

“They’re having a rough day, like just a smile like, ‘Hey, how are you doing?’ you know, like just an all-around amazing guy that just cares, and like, he is showing the kids that he cares, and that’s why cleanliness and safety are so important to him,” said teacher Laretta McPeek.

Bartscher is a Mitchell High School graduate, and Friday was his last day on the job.

Dakota News Now Photojournalist Dave Hauck met with Bartscher as he prepares

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