"Man of all trades" recognized by Chamber

Not many people can say they've done the same work for 56 years, with no signs of slowing down. The Chamber's Employee of the Month for August, Kevin Johnson, has been in the landscaping and snow removal business since he was a young boy. He worked with his dad and two brothers growing up, and his twin brother Kim continues to help during snow season.

It all started with helping neighbors, then more customers asked about his services. He chalks his success up to one thing: "I've always had a problem saying no."

This self-employed "man of all trades," as he was described by Shirley Packard in her nomination, keeps about 40 yards looking sharp from spring's thaw until fall's freeze-up. Chris Bittmann assists him with the landscaping work, which Johnson normally does in the morning and early afternoon.

Johnson also conducts moving services, clears gutters, trims trees, and cleans apartments and houses as needed by his customers. In the winter, he and his brother Kim keep busy moving snow for residents and business owners throughout the community.

Johnson's business may provide full-time work, but that's not all he does. On Tuesdays and Fridays he can be found delivering senior meals in New Rockford, a "side gig" he's filled for 30 years.

Then there's his "other" full-time job. Johnson has worked the night shift at Dakota Growers Pasta Company for six years, packaging noodles five days a week for 10 hours each day. Before that, he was the friendly bartender at Hanson's Bar many nights for 30 years.

"I don't sleep much," he quipped.

Johnson said his favorite part of the work is meeting people.

"I can never just go and mow their yard and leave," he quipped. "I have to have a cup of coffee and a cookie."

"We get treats, lots of them."

Those treats are well deserved, as is this honor.

Readers, do you know someone who makes your day better or life easier in their day (or night) job? We want to hear about it! The New Rockford Area Chamber of Commerce sponsors this monthly award, where one person is recognized each month for providing excellent service to his or her customers. To nominate an individual for this award, fill out the form online at cityofnewrockford.com/chamber or email your nomination to [email protected].