This year, Landmark Landscapes is proud to celebrate a remarkable milestone for six of our dedicated team members who have reached their 5-year anniversaries with the company. These individuals have played an integral role in our success, consistently demonstrating their hard work, expertise, and commitment to excellence. Join us in honoring their contributions and the positive impact they’ve made on our team, our projects, and our customers over the past five years!
Meet Chad Brooks: A Dedicated Member of Landmark Landscapes
Chad Brooks joined Landmark Landscapes in May 2019 as a Landscape Design-Build Technician. In October 2022, he advanced to the role of Landscape Design-Build Foreman, bringing a wealth of experience and dedication to the team.
Before joining Landmark, Chad spent most of his career in the landscape industry. He was recruited by Mike Wilterdink, the current Landmark Turf Maintenance Foreman, who had worked with Chad at a previous employer. Mike shared stories of Landmark’s positive and enjoyable culture, which convinced Chad to make the move—and he hasn’t looked back since.
Working at Landmark has been a rewarding experience for Chad. He appreciates the company’s investment in industry-leading equipment and the support of an in-house team of skilled mechanics who keep everything running smoothly. Beyond the tools of the trade, Chad values the people he works with. Landmark’s team is passionate about the industry and takes pride in creating exceptional landscapes.
At Landmark Landscapes, Chad has had the opportunity to contribute to many award-winning projects. He takes pride in showcasing his work to friends and family, knowing that it reflects the company’s commitment to excellence. Chad also feels well-supported as an employee, with benefits like health insurance, retirement savings, paid time off, and holiday breaks. On top of that, he enjoys the many outings and events Landmark hosts throughout the year, which further foster the company’s sense of camaraderie.
When he’s not at work, Chad loves spending time outdoors. He is passionate about hunting, archery, and rockhounding. He’s also a skilled carpenter, but above all, he cherishes the time spent with his two young sons, ages two and five.
If you see Chad working on one of your projects, be sure to say hello! He’s not only friendly and approachable but also dedicated to delivering exceptional results for every landscape design-build project.
Meet Lacey Busse: From Office Administrator to Controller at Landmark Landscapes
Lacey Busse joined Landmark Landscapes in September 2019 as an Office Administrator. By January 2022, her dedication and expertise led to her promotion to Controller, a role where she continues to make a significant impact.
Lacey’s journey with Landmark began in 2019 when her friend Amy Sell introduced her to the company. Amy, married to Landmark’s current Operations Manager, Joe Sell, encouraged Lacey to visit. Joe gave her a tour and introduced her to several team members. Impressed by the culture and vision, Lacey decided to apply for the Office Administrator position. During the interview, she learned more about Landmark’s forward-thinking approach and growing potential, which left her excited to join a company with such a passionate vision for the future.
It didn’t take long for Lacey to establish herself as a leader at Landmark. Reflecting on her experience, she shares, “My favorite part about working at Landmark Landscapes is that I get to do what I truly love, and my work helps others. I work with numbers and finances, using my analytical skills to help people make decisions. From the very beginning, I was encouraged to just be myself.”
Lacey also appreciates how Landmark defies common stereotypes about landscaping companies. “Our team is made up of Landscape Professionals. We’re always striving to create the best experience and culture for our employees,” she explains. Landmark’s emphasis on professionalism and fostering a positive work environment continues to resonate with her.
Outside of work, Lacey enjoys a variety of activities that reflect her family-oriented nature. She loves playing board games, hiking, and traveling with her family, cherishing the time they spend together.
Meet Bob Longhurst: A Leader in Design-Build Excellence at Landmark Landscapes
Bob Longhurst joined Landmark Landscapes in April 2019 as a Landscape Design-Build Foreman, bringing his expertise and passion for craftsmanship to the team.
At the time, Bob was working for a competitor but felt ready for a change in his career. As fate would have it, Joe Majerus, one of Landmark’s owners, learned that Bob was seeking new opportunities. Joe didn’t hold back, putting in a full-court press to recruit Bob to the team. Five years later, Bob has become a key leader within Landmark’s Design-Build division.
Bob is often entrusted with leading our award-winning design-build projects, thanks to his extensive experience, attention to detail, and exceptional craftsmanship. His dedication consistently exceeds client expectations. Beyond the satisfaction of honing his craft daily, Bob values the culture at Landmark. While the work can be demanding with long hours at times, the company emphasizes work-life balance, which Bob truly appreciates. He also enjoys being part of a team that prioritizes recruiting and supporting individuals who care deeply about the quality of their work. Whether it’s a large-scale project or a smaller endeavor, Landmark strives for excellence—something Bob admires about the company.
Over the years, Bob has also become known for a unique talent beyond landscaping: his culinary skills. His smoked meats and barbecue are legendary among the Landmark team, and he has been called upon to showcase his cooking at numerous company events. Bob’s mouthwatering creations have earned him a well-deserved reputation as a top-notch chef within the team.
If you see Bob working on your property, be sure to introduce yourself. He’s not only a skilled landscape construction professional but also a friendly and approachable individual. And who knows? If you’re lucky, you might even get a taste of one of his famous barbecue dishes!
Meet Derek Kolthoff: Turning Blank Canvases into Masterpieces at Landmark Landscapes
Derek Kolthoff joined Landmark Landscapes as a Landscape Enhancement Foreman in February 2019. Originally from Iowa, Derek moved to Wisconsin to start a new chapter in his life. Upon arriving in the Cheese State, he enrolled at Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC), where he studied Landscape Maintenance, Arboriculture, and Construction. After graduating, Derek moved to Cascade, Wisconsin, and began searching for a company to launch his career in the landscape industry. An online search led him to Landmark Landscapes, and he’s felt at home ever since.
Like many in the landscape industry, Derek thrives on taking a blank canvas and transforming it into something beautiful and inspiring. He particularly enjoys projects that involve total property transformations. As part of our Enhancement Team, Derek often manages plant installations. These projects can range from a handful of plants to thousands of perennials, ornamental grasses, trees, and shrubs. Regardless of the project’s size, Derek is known for his efficiency and ability to keep projects on or ahead of schedule.
One of the aspects Derek values most about Landmark is the company’s thoughtful approach to employee growth. He appreciates that team members aren’t rushed into roles they’re not ready for. As Derek explains, “You won’t get thrown to the wolves.” Instead, Landmark ensures that employees are well-trained and comfortable before advancing to new responsibilities. Creating a supportive and confidence-building work environment.
Outside of work, Derek enjoys spending time outdoors, whether it’s hunting ducks or deer or fishing. He also takes pride in working on his own home’s landscape. Most importantly, he loves spending time with his five-year-old daughter, who is the light of his life.
If you see Derek on your property working on a planting installation, be sure to say hello! He’s a personable and skilled professional who takes great pride in his craft.
Meet Alec Ondayko: From Technician to Supervisor in Landmark’s Turf Maintenance Team
Alec Ondayko joined Landmark Landscapes in March 2019 as a Landscape Maintenance Technician. By January 2020, he was promoted to Turf Maintenance Foreman, and in July 2021, he advanced further to become Turf Maintenance Supervisor. Alec’s journey at Landmark is a testament to his dedication and hard work, showcasing his rapid progression within just over two years.
Alec has spent his entire career in the Green Industry, starting at the age of 16 with a lawn care and landscape enhancement company in the Detroit Metro Area. In 2018, while visiting his father in Wisconsin for Thanksgiving, Alec crossed paths with Landmark employee Marshall Boll. Their conversation about the landscape industry sparked Alec’s interest. Marshall promised to help Alec secure a position at Landmark if he ever decided to move to Wisconsin. In March 2019, Alec took the leap, packed his car, and made the move. After an impressive interview, Alec was invited to start the following week with CPR training. He quickly returned to Michigan for another load of belongings and made it back in time to begin his new role.
One of the aspects Alec values most about working at Landmark is the top-notch equipment provided to him and his team. Mower blades are sharpened weekly, and the dedicated mechanics team ensures that trucks and equipment are well-maintained and quickly repaired when needed. This reliability gives the Turf Maintenance Team peace of mind and allows them to focus on delivering excellent results.
Alec is also deeply aligned with Landmark’s core values, which he strives to embody not only at work but in his personal life as well. He is inspired by Landmark’s commitment to delivering the impossible—creating and maintaining unique and exceptional landscapes for clients. Seeing the team rally to achieve remarkable results is something Alec finds both motivating and fulfilling.
When he’s not working, Alec enjoys golfing with his father and spending race weekends at Road America in Elkhart Lake. Being from Detroit, he’s an avid fan of the Detroit Red Wings and Detroit Lions, often making trips back to the area to catch games. Alec is also known around Landmark for his impressive appetite and enjoys exploring new restaurants throughout Sheboygan County.
If you see Alec working on your property, don’t hesitate to introduce yourself. He’s a passionate professional who takes pride in his work and is always happy to connect!
Meet Clare Kahn: Senior Account Manager Leading Landmark’s Landscape Maintenance Sales
Clare Kahn joined Landmark Landscapes in June 2019 as a Landscape Maintenance Technician and Account Manager. Today, she serves as the Senior Account Manager, overseeing Landscape Maintenance Sales and contributing her expertise to the company’s continued growth and success.
Clare’s journey in the green industry began in high school. But, five years ago, while working for a competitor, she realized she was ready for a fresh and exciting change. She was drawn to Landmark Landscapes for its unique combination of professionalism and a close-knit, family-oriented culture. Reflecting on her decision, Clare shared, “Landmark felt like the perfect balance of professionalism and personal connection, and it’s been a great fit ever since.”
She also highlighted the company’s team-first culture, saying, “Everyone genuinely supports one another, and it creates an environment where you feel valued. I also take pride in delivering exceptional quality and making a lasting impact for our clients.”
Clare wants both clients and prospective employees to know what makes Landmark special. “We are a team of passionate and driven individuals who truly care about what we do. Guided by our motto, ‘Art Through Ecology for More Vibrant Communities,’ we bring creativity and sustainability together to enhance the spaces we touch. Everything we do reflects our mission, vision, and values, driving us to create landscapes that inspire and enrich the lives of those around us.”
Outside of work, Clare’s passion for gardening continues at home, where she enjoys tending to her garden, particularly tropical plants and annual display beds. She and her husband love spending time outdoors, whether it’s having campfires, enjoying tropical vacations during the winter, or boating and making the most of summer at their lake house. Clare rarely spends time indoors during the warmer months, fully embracing the outdoor lifestyle.
If you have the pleasure of working with Clare for the maintenance of your landscape and gardens, you won’t be disappointed. Her fun personality, combined with a wealth of gardening knowledge and experience, ensures exceptional results every time.
Join Our Team
Landmark Landscapes is a place where you can build a fulfilling career in the landscape industry. We offer opportunities for growth, professional development, and meaningful work. As highlighted in this anniversary post, our team members feel challenged, supported, and rewarded for their efforts. If you’re ready to grow with us, click here to share why you’d like to join our team!
