“We were not just satisfied with the outcome of this process, but with the entire process. … The defining factor for any project goes beyond tangibles. The experience of the customer can ‘make or break’ the relationship. Carmel Builders listened to our ideas and input, treated us with respect and always made us feel like we were part of the ‘team.’ They exhibited respect for our property by maintaining a clean environment even when that was difficult. They got along with each other, with the other workers, and with our family. They actually felt like family!”
- Bill & Jeanette Lubitz
of Hartland
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Client Profile - Inspire, Not Retire!
Bill and Jeanette Lubitz
If one word only could be used to describe Bill and Jeanette Lubitz it would have to be doers! Tom and Barb and the Carmel Crew became acquainted with Bill and Jeanette in 2002 when they chose Carmel Builders to remodel their kitchen and bathroom. Since then, we’ve witnessed their industriousness first hand. They don’t shy away from a challenge.
This was obvious right from the start as Jeanette documented the transformation of their kitchen with a computerized slide show presentation complete with descriptive captions - this, well before slide shows were common with home PC’s. In many ways the kitchen remodel was prompted by their extensive interests. They are both great cooks and Bill is a wine connoisseur so they wanted a kitchen that could handle two cooks. Bill, a retired engineer, and Jeanette, a former communications professional, are entirely comfortable with technology. So they asked for a computer station in the heart of their home as well. Bill and Jeanette’s distinctive qualities were also demonstrated when they asked for the design to include a space for their washer and dryer! Out of the ordinary - just like the homeowners!
During and after the three month project, we also learned that, along with being people of vast interests and talent, Bill and Jeanette were exceptionally hospitable and affable. A great friendship developed! Over the eight years we have know the Lubitz’, we watched Bill, at age 70, take up ballroom dancing and become an award winner in his age group as Jeanette photographed his competitions. Of course, she developed her photos in the dark room he built for her in the basement. (What would you expect?) We learned of Jeanette’s artistic talent as she created the most beautiful and elaborate scrap books I have ever seen. Her photography evolved from a hobby to an avocation as Jeanette took classes and attended nationwide conferences, honing her skill. She is now affiliated with an organization of photographers that call themselves amateurs but deliver professional quality work. She has photographer friends all over the country and beyond! We have enjoyed the fruits of her work as she has gifted us with her annual photo calendar and, incredibly, a photo shoot of family members during their visit. I’m biased, but aren’t they wonderful?
Jeanette’s photos and fervent faith provided the inspiration for even further creativity. In 2009 she published her first book of poetry and photography aptly titled “The Gifts He Gives”. This amazing and inspiring volume can be reviewed and purchased online at http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/725332.
About the same time Jeanette published her book, Bill finished the construction of his rowboat. Building a canoe the year before proved to be such an enjoyable undertaking, he decided to take on another challenge. These vessels are not only water worthy but true works of art. Using Cedar to make both the boat and the canoe, it took Bill about six months to build each one. The cedar strips are about 1/4" thick and really long and needed to be carefully bowed with clamps. Assemblies of both vessels began in the Lubitz basement and were finished in the garage. Bill told us building the oars and paddles were almost as difficult as the rest of the construction as he had to laminate the wood together then hand carve and shape each one.
Construction complete, the Lubitz’ invited friends to celebrate the accomplishments by hosting launch parties. We were able to attend the rowboat launch gala and even managed to snap a few photos. She’s a beauty.
Retirement for Bill and Jeanette Lubitz does not suggest quiet days of leisure; rather it means more time to tackle more challenges! Remarkable! I wonder what will be next.
Submitted by Barbara Weiher, Vice President and Co-Owner of Carmel Builders