Calvin Krueger, patriarch of Krueger Development, recently celebrated his 80th birthday. As a 2nd generation German from Russia he quickly learned his work ethic by helping out on his family’s North Dakota farmstead.
In 1947 the family moved to Lincoln so Calvin and his siblings could attend Union College. While working for a local carpet company, Calvin inquired about a position with Sears and Roebuck. Initially, the manager could only provide a $15 service appointment, but upon successful completion it then turned into a full-time position.
In a few years Calvin left Sears and Roebuck to establish his own company, Krueger Carpet, constructing his first building and storefront in 1957 at 4717 Lowell Street. It took only $2000, a $1 permit, and the approval of a single person at the Building and Safety Department to construct the 800 sq. foot structure.
Through Krueger Carpet and his working relationship with Lincoln builders a spark was ignited within Calvin to further pursue his interest in real estate and commercial and residential development. In 1972 he purchased 26 acres for development at 48th and Highway 2, which became Sutter Place Mall and a new home for Krueger Carpet.
Focusing on the future, Calvin wanted his company to be rooted in family values. In 1985 he joined forces with his son, Rick Krueger, to form the present day Krueger Development. Their initial purchase as partners consisted of 50 acres at 56th and Old Cheney, which has been developed into the Lincoln Trade Center.
Today, Krueger Development continues to expand its focus primarily in south Lincoln. Calvin and Rick strive to preserve their long-standing relationships they have cultivated for decades in the business community. They seek to maintain a family-oriented approach to customer service and quality of work. Many members of the family are involved with the company on some level of business, and with Calvin’s eight great-grandchildren these values and traditions will carry on for years to come.
Calvin, his wife Sue, and the Krueger family also believe in giving back to the local and global communities. They have traveled and volunteered on many mission trips with Maranatha Volunteers International, where Calvin holds the distinction of being the longest-serving board member. The most recent demonstration of their philanthropy can be seen at Union College where the Krueger Center, a 57,000 square foot state-of-the-art facility for science and mathematics, was completed in-part due to the generous leadership donation from Sue and Calvin.
Krueger Development’s Lincoln presence continues to grow through residential lots at 120th and Old Cheney and 70th and Yankee Hill. They also offer a variety of lease-ready commercial space in South Ridge Village at 27th and Pine Lake, The Lincoln Trade Center at 56th and Old Cheney, the Yankee Hill Business Center at 14th and Yankee Hill, the new Enterprise Center at 84th and Yankee Hill, and several other locations in south Lincoln. Krueger’s apartment properties include Chantacleer Residences at 14th and Pine Lake and Chatelaine Residences at 62nd and Normal.
For more information, contact Krueger Development today.
402-423-7377