BUILDING ON FAMILY
Looking to build a home or business in New York State? You may just run into the Abele brothers during your search. Chris Abele started Abele Builders in Clifton Park, New York, in 1985. Seven years later, his brother, Ed, joined the business. Their primary focus is residential homebuilding and commercial real estate development with a long-term eye on steady growth.
The brothers came by entrepreneurialism honestly. Their father, Jack, began farming after World War II and eventually ventured into a commercial nursery and landscaping business. As kids, Chris and Ed worked in the nursery and on the commercial landscape jobs. They both credit their father and mother, Gertrude, with developing their diligent work ethic, their business vision and foresight, and their family-oriented business style.
And their employees are an extension of that family. John Delano, construction site supervisor, has been with the company since its inception. “John is very knowledgeable,” said Chris. “He’s efficient and is always thinking three steps ahead.”
Operator, Skip Shippee, and his brother, Tim, are also an integral part of the business. Skip began operating a John Deere 350 Dozer in 1968. He then owned his own excavation business running John Deere equipment for more than 30 years before bringing his experience and expertise to Abele Builders three years ago. “Skip is the best operator I have ever seen,” said Chris. “He has great finesse and is so detail oriented. He doesn’t like to leave the jobsite until it looks perfect.” It is that attention to detail that helps make the business such a success.
Beyond the employees, John Deere and the local dealership employees have also been like family. Abele Builders has owned many Deere machines through the years. They currently own a 350D LC Excavator, 130G Excavator, 410K Backhoe, two 650J Dozers, a 323D Compact Track Loader, and a 35G Compact Excavator. “We like the quality, reliability, resale value, and durability of John Deere equipment,” Chris said.
“Our local dealer’s consistency in sales, parts and service teams create long term relationships, and the way they really stand behind the John Deere product is key,” Chris explained. “The team in Clifton Park are great people to work with.”