In 1971, my family began building the Teton Teepee Lodge in Alta, Wyoming, and I moved here full-time after high school graduation when the Teepee opened its doors for the 1974/75 ski season. My brother and I operated the Lodge and lived the lives of our dreams, sharing the magic of Grand Targhee and endless powder with guests from around the country. Many longtime Teton Valley residents had their first taste of the Tetons as guests of the Teton Teepee. Early on, we realized we couldn’t truly make a living as full-time ski bums running a ski lodge, so Alta Construction was started in 1978 to fund our ski lifestyle.
Alta Construction quickly grew to be one of the largest local construction companies, specializing in subdivision development and infrastructure and evolving into custom home building. I have enjoyed helping many of our Teton Teepee guests transition from guests to locals by helping them build their dream homes in the Valley.
I have been passionate about helping kids in Teton Valley have opportunities to enjoy sports and recreation. This led to organized and funded youth athletic programs, including baseball, soccer, and skiing. As one of the founding members of the Grand Targhee Ski and Snowboard Foundation, my goal has been to give local kids opportunities to enhance their skills while enjoying our amazing mountains. My wife, Patti Kauf, and I recently donated property for the Aquatic Center to be built on to continue providing recreational opportunities for local youth and community members.
Joining Grand Associates with my wife Patti and her real estate partners Kim Beres and Brooke Saindon gives me an opportunity to utilize and expand my construction background and brings land development, infrastructure, and construction expertise to the Grand Associates Team. My knowledge of the building and development codes and relationships with the local planning and building department comfort my clients as I guide them and consult with them through their build/development process. I pay attention to detail and have knowledge of all aspects of construction from start to finish.
I am grateful to have called Teton Valley home for fifty years and love sharing this special place with others.
