About us

All in the Family

In 1967, Bob and Joan Vitcenda purchased A-1 Plumbing, Heating, and Excavating,

Located in the small Northwoods town of Exeland, Wisconsin, along the beautiful Chippewa River. What began as a two-person business and since grown into a well-known local company that now employs eight people. The couple’s four children helped the family business as they grew into adulthood. “Our children really helped make this business what it is today,” Joan says proudly.


A-1 deals with excavating, various septic systems, plumbing, soil tests, basement digging, gravel, and materials that customers request. Bob was always active in the community, serving on the county board, coaching little league, and other projects and endeavors needing attention in town. He also served as a member of the Exeland Rod & Gun Club and a board member at a local bank. As they traveled, they steadily handed over the day-to-day operations to their two sons, Bruce and Bart. 

Two men are standing next to a semi truck on a dirt road.
Two men standing in front of a john deere excavator

Today, daughter Brenda, along with Joan,

handles the office side of the operation while Bart and Bruce manage the job site responsibilities. Bart and Bruce continue to volunteer in nearby communities and operate this very busy company. They desire to carry on the family legacy of work personalized for the customer's needs and work characterized by honesty and high quality.


Bart and Bruce, along with top-notch employees, strive to deliver the work that customers want in a professional, traditional manner with a unique twist of personalization. They have grown to serve the entire Sawyer County and Rusk and Washburn.


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