About Us
Our Story
It all started with two young boys drinking orange pop, enjoying life in Minnetonka Mills Minnesota. As these childhood friends built tree forts and go-karts together they dreamed of joining forces someday to build their own business. After graduating from college at 23 years old, Gregg partnered with his best friend Ron and set out for the North Shore. It began by making cheese boards and knife blocks in a dusty one-room abandoned schoolhouse formerly called Clover Valley. Their business evolved from a manufacturer of small oak accessories to hand-crafted rustic furniture including traditional hickory and inlaid birch pieces. Discovering the wood used to build The Historic Globe Elevator 1857 was the inspiration behind what Northshore Custom Wood is known for today.
Pictured: Ron and Gregg
Our Team
Ron: Co-Founder & Chief Craftsman
Like clockwork, Ron starts his morning bright and early by filling his thermos with coffee. If you happen to be driving along the scenic Northshore during the wee hours of the morning you will probably see him headed to the shop. Ron has dedicated over forty years to mastering the art of designing, building, and finishing furniture and millwork. He is famous for his fine finishes. Ron is a true artisan who spends his day crafting in the shop and working diligently to put a smile on his customers’ faces. When he is not in the shop you can find Ron on his houseboat, The Diamond, fishing. This might explain his love for Lutefisk. Because of his strong work ethic and industrious character, we can assure you that Ron will create the perfect custom wood piece for you.
Gregg: Co-Founder
When Gregg isn’t at the shop or on the road meeting with customers you will most likely find him at his tree farm. Gregg enjoys clearing trails on his land and cutting firewood for the wood stove. He starts his day early in the morning with a strong cup of coffee (preferably with chaga and raw honey). Lively conversation with good friends new and old warms his heart. His favorite place to be is with his wife Michelle by a blazing fire in the woods. Gregg’s creativity and passion for everything that has to do with trees and wood is evident in his ability to source the best quality and often rare lumber that is used to create Northshore Custom Wood signature pieces.
Bob: Craftsman
Bob Hagedorn has played an integral part in Northshore Wood Products’ story. Bob came to work for Nothshore when he was in high school. His abilities far exceeded his years. Bob then attended the University of Minnesota and received his engineering degree. After attending college, Bob decided to return to Northshore Wood and he has been there ever since. Bob has old-world skills, combined with his engineering genius. No project or problem is too big for Bob. If you have a question Bob has the answer, he loves the challenge. He has built tools and jigs that didn’t even exist. He is also an expert with metals and wood, combining his skills to make one-of-a-kind pieces. Bob is a true MacGyver. You can see that Bob is doing what he set out to do. He is his own man.
Steve Boen is a Northshore Veteran. Steve grew up in Two Harbors, and he is another “local boy.” Steve works side by side with Bob Hagedorn. They make a great team. He is Bob’s right-hand man. To watch them work together side by side is a sight to see. No wonder Santa has been trying to recruit them. Steve joined NSWP when he was just a teenager in 1994, which makes 30 years. His experience, abilities, and commitment to perfection qualify him as a master craftsman.
Steve is a family man, no doubt. Being a Dad of three young children is another full-time job. He loves fishing in local lakes and rivers. Camping with his wife and kids is next on the adventure list. Steve is a man of few words, but his excellent work speaks for itself.
Steve: Craftsman
Michelle Lillejord, a former homecoming queen, grew up in the Sandhills on a ranch in Nebraska around horses and cattle. She has fond memories of driving a tractor as a young girl in the beautiful meadows where she raked hay and helped her uncles put up haystacks. As a small-town gal who loves the outdoors, hiking, and everything water, it was love at first sight when Michelle saw Duluth for the first time. Michelle is passionate about making everything beautiful, and she is a curator at heart. Drawing inspiration from nature, she combines local materials, colors, and textures to create one-of-a-kind spaces. Her love for the outdoors, garden design, art, and the Northwoods reflects her unique style. She loves people and truly enjoys working with our customers. Michelle is a great listener. She will take your ideas and work alongside the master craftsman to design tailor-made pieces for you.
Michelle: In House Design & Consultant
Sandy Cook has been integral to the Northshore Wood Products team for over 30 years. Regarding locals, Sandy only lives a few miles from “The Shop” on her ranch, where she was raised near the French River. Sandy is a real country gal through and through. Sandy’s independent spirit is noteworthy. Her passion for Arabian horses and imported German Shepherds is second to none. Sandy is a strong gal who can toss a 50-lb feed bag like nothing. She speaks proudly of her newest addition, an Amish Driving Horse. He is a big beauty! This prize horse pulls a buggy and an antique sleigh complete with bells. Sandy also trained and bred German Shepherds (an imported breed) for 19 years. When Sandy and Butch can get away, they enjoy 4-wheeling expeditions up north in the woods. Sandy is truly an asset to Northshore Wood Products and a loyal friend.
