Shortly after high school, Erich started making furniture and various woodworking projects for family and friends. He saw an opportunity and took it. He rented a small space on Frederick Ave in St. Joseph, put a sign on the window, and Splinters Wood Shoppe was open. A few years later, with a passion for more, Erich had the idea of selling wood and specialty tools to area woodworkers. Thus, The Hardwood Co. was born. 

Around 10 years later with some failures, successes, and a lot of lessons learned, Erich founded Van Cleave Construction, Remodeling, and Design in June of 2006. In the first year, a couple of employees were hired, and at the time the company concentrated on vinyl siding, doors, windows, and decks. A few years later, the first bathroom remodel was completed, with the first kitchen a few years after. 

In the last 20 years, Erich’s focus on quality and professionalism has awarded Van Cleave Construction many projects with a loyal customer base. He continues that same focus today, and it is now seen through the work of a team of experienced craftspeople and office professionals.