Art Vilandre founded Vilandres in 1935, in a 169 square foot office on the corner of North Seventh Street and Seventh Avenue North. The business is still there, and now occupies the entire block.
Coal was the primary heating source at the time. Vilandres started installing Winkler coal stockers, the first type of automated heating system. When fuel oil became available in this part of the county Vilandres began delivering fuel oil and installing Winkler Low Pressure oil burners. A complete sheet metal shop was soon added to enhance the installation of oil and gas furnaces. Ardell "Casey" Vilandre joined the family firm after graduating from college and serving two years in the military.
Once air conditioning made its way into our region, Vilandres expanded to include air conditioning installation and service.
Mike Garceau and Dave Lill currently head up the Vilandre installation division. Mike and Dave have both been with the company over 23 years. This department specializes in the installation of residential and commercial heating, air conditioning, fireplaces and ventilation products. Our nine installation staff members bring over 80 years of combined experience to your home or business.
In 1976, Vilandre added a seamless gutter division to the ever-increasing list of customer services offered. Rodger Hoffert, who has been with the company for over 30 years, has headed this department since its inception, as well as managing the fuel oil division.
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The Vilandre sales estimation and installation division is headed up by Gene Lill. Gene has been with the company for over 30 years. His expertise and knowledge are considerable assets to Vilandres and its customers.
After nearly 40 years in this business, Steve Kroke retired in June 2007. Steve's impact on this company has been immense. Thank you, Steve, and best wishes from all of us.
The Vilandre service division, which operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, has grown immensely. Jason Burris, who has been with the company for over 14 years, heads up the service department. Our ten factory trained service technicians bring over 50 years of combined service experience and knowledge to your home or business.
In 1996, Vilandres started a full service plumbing division. They offer a full line of plumbing products, sales, installation and service. They have five master plumbers and a full complement of journeymen and apprentices on staff. Kurt Gamache, who has been with the company 10 years, manages the scheduling and estimating.
And, of course, the divisions are backed by our outstanding office support staff, Mona Whalen, Wilma Smith and Karla Braaten. Together, they have been with the company for over 42 years.
Nine years ago Casey Vilandre sold his interest in the business to longtime company manager, Jeff Wilson. Jeff has continued to operate the business with the same customer-oriented philosophy the company is known for.
"Our goal is to continue to provide exceptional service and products to all our loyal and new customers. In fact, every service we offer our customers comes with an exclusive customer satisfaction policy."
"To all of our customers, from our entire staff, thank you for your business." -Submitted by Vilandre.
