Our History
Julius E. Kaaz Jr. Contractor was started in Kansas by Julius E. Kaaz, Jr. The work performed by this enterprising young contractor concentrated primarily on concrete and brickwork, while his wife, Lydia kept track of business affairs
Son-in-law, Eldon Luehring joined the business in 1945. He came to the business with a degree in mechanical engineering. Over then next ten years the size of projects and scope of work increased and additional employees were added to the team.
In 1957, J. David Kaaz (son) began working for the business after serving in the military. He brought a degree of architectural engineering to the business.
In 1958, Marguerite (wife of Eldon) and JoEtta (wife of David) began performing accounting functions for the business. Julius E. Kaaz Jr. Contractor was changed to the present name of Julius Kaaz Construction Co., Inc., (Kaaz Construction) in January 1959. That same year, Leavenworth Excavating and Equipment Company, Inc. was formed to provide grading services. Both corporations were owned and operated by Eldon & Marguerite Luehring and David & JoEtta Kaaz.
In 1964, Eldon & Marguerite Luehring were killed in an automobile crash while on vacation in Mexico. Following this personal loss, David and JoEtta accepted the responsibility of operating both corporations. Through their hard work and dedication, each businesses continued to grow and prosper.
In 1979, Stephen L. Kaaz (son of David and JoEtta) joined the business. With his degree in Construction Science Engineering, Kaaz Construction now had the expertise to perform even larger and more complex projects.
In 1984, Greg D. Kaaz (son of David and JoEtta) joined the business. His degree in civil engineering brought expanded expertise and growth to Lexeco, Inc. In 1998, Steve and Greg purchased the businesses from their parents. Under their direction, the companies continued to grow in size and capacity.
Steve’s daughter, Jody began working for the companies in 2002. Her degree in business management and accounting adds a new dimension to future planning and day to day operations. His son Jeffrey completed an Associates Degree in Business Administration and began working in the field in the Spring of 2003.
With their leadership, the founding principles of safety, quality, integrity and honesty remain a priority; and Kaaz-Lexeco Construction Companies will continue to provide high quality construction and customer satisfaction at a fair price into the future.