Tony Kluesner Testimonial

by Ben Watters

For many years Tony Kluesner has been building homes and remodeling in and near Linton In. As an artist Tony uses the homes he builds as his canvas, applying his skills to move owners from design to finished product.

After spending two years as an art student at Vincennes University Tony left to pursue a carrier in Retail Management in Radcliff, Ky. As an Assistant Manager Tony was just not satisfied but stayed on until he was asked to transfer to Pittsburg Pa. Tony was in retail just long enough to realize it was not something that excited him, so he came home to Linton.

Back in Linton Tony soon started working, as a carpenter for John Seacrest a local contractor. This seemed to be a fit as after just two weeks John noticed Tony’s natural, God given talent. John encouraged Tony by saying he might have what it takes to “be on his own one day”.

Tony was soon approached by a local Carpenters Union rep to join and start accepting work. Tony did and soon secured work in a local power plant and refinery. These jobs were great but still Tony wanted to be in control of his own future. Tony said he “could not imagine working in a factory.”

After much prayer and discussion with his wife, Tony, decided to go out on his own. He said he started his business with “$200.00 and a truck”. At first, he specialized in room additions, decks, mobile home remodeling, and a small home or two.

A big break came when a local businessman Joe Angell recognized Tony’s natural talent and hired him to build a custom home for his daughter. Joe was pleased as Tony built homes for all three daughters then gained a reputation for doing quality work. From humble beginnings and after a cabin finishing job in Montana his business was now on a firm foundation.

Tony feels blessed to have been able to do what God had specially equipped him to do. That’s why Tony consults with churches in the area when they have a build. It is his way of giving back to honor his faith and the path he has been traveling his whole life.

This painting started on a canvas as a boy building forts in the woods and solving problems as he went. Tony even remembers his old boss John Seacrest saying “a problem is an opportunity in disguise.” That is what Tony does, he solves problems both big and small.

Tony feels his success must be directed toward God for giving him the talent and ability to succeed. He feels he was providentially lead to meet his top employees Rick Vaughn and Sean Conklin who share the same set of skills as Tony. Rick and Sean often help Tony make crucial decisions concerning the business.

Our Bender Lumber store in Linton partners with Tony as his major supplier. Manager Teresa McBride and Salesman Cory Christmas help Tony be the problem solver he needs to be. Working together to make sure timely deliveries are made with top-quality products.

The canvas of Tony’s life is far from complete. As Tony nears retirement he is glad to be able to pass his knowledge down to his daughter Lori and son-in-law Bart Wade who are working hard to keep the company on a strong footing. Tony plans on staying engaged for many years designing homes while Bart runs the crews. As this transition takes place you can bet Bender Lumber will be there to support Bart and Lori as they go. The future is bright for Kluesner Construction.