Stanley Klaus: Roofin’ It
By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter
SANTA ROSA — When asked how he got introduced to the roofing trade, Stanley Klaus says it was basically a trial by fire. “My father was a minister, and when I was 16, he set me up with a summer job working for a roofing contractor in his congregation,” he remembers. “I started out carrying hot tar across a roof in the summer heat—not exactly a walk in the park.” Shortly after reaching adulthood, Stanley returned to the trade he’d become acquainted with as a teenager. “I got married when I was 22, and I needed a job. Since I already had experience with roofing, I committed myself to being a full-time professional roofer.” In 1984, Stanley founded his first company, SK Roofing, which he operated until he purchased Crandall Roofing Inc. in 2006.
Today, Stanley says his favorite part of his job is the feeling of accomplishment it provides. “I find the completed project to be very satisfying, not only at the time of completion but also in subsequent years. For example, I did the roof for Snoopy’s Home Ice in 1987, and every time I drive by there, I’m reminded of our good work.”
A longtime resident of Sonoma County, Stanley resides in Santa Rosa, where he appreciates the amiable weather. “I was born in Minnesota, and most of my family is from the East Coast, so I’ve experienced my share of brutal winters,” he says. “In comparison, Sonoma County is great. I honestly can’t think of a better, more beautiful place to live and raise a family.”
Speaking of family, Stanley spends much of his time outside of work with his wife, Karolee, and their four grown children and 10 grandchildren. “I see one or more of my grandchildren every day, and I enjoy being a big part of their lives,” he affirms. Additionally, Stanley likes spending time on the ocean. “The ocean is definitely my passion. I used to be a scuba instructor and did a lot of diving. These days, I mostly do ocean fishing, which absolutely rocks my world.”
In his life and career, Stanley espouses the importance of delivering on your word. “I grew up in a minister’s home, where, in addition to my faith, I learned basic principles like honesty and integrity, which I continue to practice today,” he says. “In terms of running a business, I think it all comes down to being square with people and doing what you say you’re going to do. If I tell a customer I’m going to do something, I don’t try to waffle out of it—I do it. It’s simple integrity, and that’s how we operate.”
When asked what his future retirement might look like, Stanley says he’ll divide his time between family and travel. “My wife and I are considering buying a fifth wheel and RVing around the country. There are so many sites in the United States we haven’t had a chance to see, so that would be a lot of fun.”
Ask Me Anything!
Q: What’s your favorite sports team?
A: The North Bay Rattlers, which is a semi-pro football team based in Santa Rosa.
Q: What’s your favorite holiday?
A: Thanksgiving—it’s all about love and family, but there’s no pressure to buy gifts.
Q: What were you most known for in high school?
A: Athletics—I ran track and did martial arts.
Q: What’s your favorite local restaurant?
A: Black Bear Diner in Rohnert Park. I eat there all too often.
Q: What’s the most death-defying feat you’ve ever attempted?
A: I’ve been told I was crazy to spend so many hours diving in the Red Triangle, which is the region of California’s north coast where the majority of great white shark attacks occur. To be honest, I wasn’t really worried about sharks—I was just stoked to be diving.