Wilhelm Dornbusch was born in Allner on September 17, 1890, the son of an innkeeper. After attending elementary school in Bröl, he learned the trade of model carpentry. After successfully completing his journeyman’s examination, he worked in various companies. At this time, the idea of setting up his own company was already maturing. However, he was drafted into the army in 1912. The company foundation will have to wait. After returning healthy from the front, he worked as a journeyman at Gebrüder Steimel after the First World War. In 1919, he married Maria Arnold, whose family ran a bakery and farm in Happerschoss. Two daughters – Maria (*1924) and Thesi (*1928) – are born.