We Pour Concrete, We Build Careers, We Deliver Quality

Built on Hard Work, Grit, and Precision

What started as weekend work for family and friends grew into a company that delivers precision, speed, and top-tier craftsmanship on every job. But Crete & Co. isn’t just about concrete—it’s about people. Our team works hard, puts in the effort, and takes pride in what they do, knowing that when the job is done, they get to go home and enjoy the life they’ve built.

The Crew That Makes It Happen

At Crete & Co., we’re more than coworkers—we’re a crew that builds together, grows together, and delivers results that last. Today, we are a Lean, Mean, Concrete Pouring Machine delivering fast, precise, and high-quality concrete work on every job, no matter the size

John Forseth
Owner / President 

John, the dynamic entrepreneur who founded Crete & Co. in 2015, has been steadily expanding the team since then. A native of Bemidji, he completed his education at Bemidji High School (2012) and Bemidji State University (2015). While owning Crete & Co. holds significance for John, his primary focus lies in nurturing his family team alongside his wife Lindsey. Together, they have two boys, Brooks and Graham, who share a passion for construction, often seen operating "their" bobcats and cheering for the Beaver Hockey team. In his rare moments of leisure, John indulges in his personal hobbies, which include bow hunting, fishing, and constructing an outdoor hockey rink for his sons.

Smiling couple standing hand-in-hand against a dark stone wall; the man wears a brown t-shirt and black pants, and the woman wears a sleeveless white dress, leaning her head on his shoulder.
Smiling couple sitting at an outdoor table with a black and white spaniel between them, under red and black patio umbrellas at a busy café or restaurant.
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Jaret Lalli
Vice President

Jaret began his journey with the Crete & Co. team in 2017, initially joining as a seasonal employee while pursuing his education. After graduating from Bemidji High School in 2017, he continued to balance his studies with work until he completed his Business Management degree at Concordia College Moorhead in 2023 while also participating in collegiate hockey. Beyond his professional pursuits, Jaret finds joy in a variety of hobbies, including hockey, golfing, traveling, enjoying lake activities, and spending quality time with his fiancé, Jodi, and their puppy, Leila. Leila is a frequent shop employee and has become a sort of Crete and Co. mascot and shop greeter.

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Ethen Pickett
Lead Foreman

Ethen began his journey with the Crete & Co. team in 2018, steadily advancing to the role of foreman. Prior to entering the concrete industry, he accumulated four years of carpentry experience specializing in framing houses. Ethen completed his education at Bemidji High School in 2017, actively participating in hockey and soccer. Nowadays, he relishes his leisure hours by engaging in outdoor activities, exploring hunting grounds across various states, bonding with his black lab Odin, and hitting the golf course with his friends.

Smiling couple standing together in front of a rustic wooden wall. The man is wearing a tan t-shirt and black shorts while holding a drink can, and the woman is in a white cropped top and black skirt with a front knot. They are standing close, with his arm around her shoulder.
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Steve Johanns
Lead Foreman

Joining the Crete & Co. team back in 2018, Steve has steadily risen to his current position as Foreman. He completed his high school education at Bemidji High School in 2017 and later graduated from Bemidji State University in 2021 with a degree in Business Management. Beyond the job site, Steve finds fulfillment in golfing and indulging in lake life activities. He enjoys spending time outdoors with friends and takes delight in renovating his newly acquired home in Bemidji. An amusing tidbit about Steve is that he holds the record among all Crete & Co. members for his skill at riding a mechanical bull.

Bride and groom posing outdoors on their wedding day with a golden retriever. The groom is wearing an all-black suit with a white boutonniere, and the bride is in a white lace gown holding a bouquet of white roses and greenery. They are both smiling, kneeling beside their happy dog in front of a garden and building with large windows.
Caleb Manecke
Crew Foreman

Caleb became a member of the Crete & Co. team in 2018 while simultaneously pursuing his education and playing baseball for Bemidji State. He graduated from New Richmond High in 2016, where he actively participated in baseball, football, and basketball. Caleb continues to showcase his passion for baseball by playing competitively for the Bemidji amateur baseball team, the Blue Ox. Among his hobbies are playing video games, constructing with Lego bricks, engaging in cornhole matches, and golfing alongside his colleagues from Crete & Co. In 2023, Caleb tied the knot with his wife, Erin. An interesting tidbit about Caleb is that he has never eaten any kind of rice!

Couple posing together in front of a tropical resort backdrop with palm trees, a pool, and the ocean in the distance. The woman is wearing a black and tan patterned dress, and the man is dressed in a black Crete & Co. polo, gray pants, and a cap. They are smiling and standing close, with manicured landscaping and ornate railing in the foreground.
Tony Long
Site Superintendent

Tony became a valued member of the Crete & Co. team in 2021, seamlessly integrating into the workforce. Prior to joining Crete & Co., Tony spent four years at Mortenson Company, operating a range of heavy machinery across different states. A native of Bemidji, he graduated from Bemidji High School in 2017. Tony's leisure pursuits include hunting, fishing, ice fishing, exploring the outdoors on his side-by-side, and cherishing moments with his loved ones, including his family, friends, and girlfriend, Jada.

Young couple smiling at an outdoor restaurant table at night, sitting close together with a giant yellow frozen drink in front of them with two colorful straws. The woman is wearing a sleeveless white dress and the man is in a short-sleeved button-up shirt and backward baseball cap. Dim lighting and foliage create a cozy, festive atmosphere.
Man standing on a boat holding a freshly caught tuna with both hands. He is wearing a light-colored ESCH Construction Supply hoodie, sunglasses, a black APM hat, and dark shorts. The ocean stretches out behind him under a clear blue sky, with fishing rods and gear visible around the boat.
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Parker Mistic
Crew Foreman

Parker began his journey with Crete and Co. in 2021 and has steadily risen through the ranks ever since. Graduating from Lineman school at M. State Wadena in 2023, Parker briefly explored other career paths but ultimately returned to his passion for concrete work and camaraderie with his colleagues. During his downtime, Parker enjoys activities such as hunting, fishing, spearfishing, and quality time with his girlfriend, Gracie. An interesting tidbit about Parker is that he was gifted the nickname "Sparky" by his work team members.

Ice hockey player in a white, red, and black uniform preparing to pass or shoot the puck during a game. He wears a “C” on his jersey, indicating captain status, and his gear includes Bauer gloves and skates. The team logo features a fierce wolf with flames, and the player is intensely focused on the action.
Josef Lalli
Crew Foreman

Josef was warmly convinced to join the Crete and Co. team by his elder brother Jaret, who is also part of the crew. Starting in 2022, Josef began working during the summers while not residing in Wyoming, where he pursues junior hockey. Born and raised in Bemidji, MN, he graduated from high school in the same year, 2022. Apart from his passion for hockey, Josef enjoys hunting, fishing, weightlifting, spending time with his girlfriend Maddie, and golfing. On the job site, you'll likely spot Josef with his sleeves rolled up, sporting a pair of stylish Rico Suave sunglasses.

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Hunter Olson
Advanced Concrete Finisher

Hunter became part of the Crete & Co. team in 2022. You can’t miss him on a jobsite—he’s usually working hard and flashing a big smile while doing it. A 2018 graduate of Bemidji High School, Hunter recently graduated from Concordia College in Moorhead, MN, where he balanced academics with his love for hockey and baseball. Now stepping into the next chapter, he stays active with sports and fishing and never misses a chance to spend quality time with his nieces and nephews. He’s also known to bust a move whenever there’s music playing and loves making memories with his longtime girlfriend, Mikerra.

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Riley Miller
Concrete Cutting Specialist

Riley embarked on his professional journey with Crete and Co. in 2021, transitioning from a role in social work. Graduating from Blackduck High School in 2014, he pursued further education in Law Enforcement. This summer of 2024 marked a new chapter when he tied the knot with his fiancée, Jessica. Together, they nurture their blended family of four, Riley, Jessica, Allisyn, and Geena. Riley finds solace in outdoor pursuits like hunting, trapping, and fishing, often venturing to different state parks with his loved ones to hike and fish. His zest for life extends to a love for comedy, sharing laughter with his family and colleagues on a daily basis.

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High school football player in a white uniform running with the ball during a night game. He wears a helmet with a “B” logo and is closely pursued by opponents in blue jerseys labeled “Sartell.” Teammates and other players are seen in the background amid the play.
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Ephram Boucher
Advanced Concrete Laborer

Ephram joined Crete & Co. in 2022 at just 15 years old, marking his first step into the construction world—and he’s been a dedicated part of the crew ever since. While he may be the youngest on the team, his work ethic and skill speak for themselves. Ephram graduated from Bemidji High School in 2025 and plans to attend St. Scholastica in Duluth to further his football career. When he’s not working or training, he enjoys hunting, fishing, and staying active with hockey, track, and more.

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Man smiling and leaning over construction plans at a building site. He is wearing a gray “BPI” cap, tan t-shirt, and has a tattoo on his forearm. He’s holding a pen and a calculator, surrounded by unfinished wooden framing and structural plywood.
Dominic Mapes
Estimator / Project Manager

Dominic brings fresh talent to the Crete and Co. team starting in 2023, complemented by a rich background in construction. With six years of carpentry and masonry experience in the Army reserves, Dominic is well-versed in hands-on work. Additionally, he boasts extensive expertise in residential estimation and project management. Holding a Construction Management degree from NDSU, earned in 2019, Dominic is equipped with comprehensive knowledge in his field. Beyond work, Dominic enjoys farming, cooking, hunting, and completing his home construction project. Family is central to Dominic's life, with his wife, Samantha, and their two daughters, Margo and Wrenley.

Smiling woman holding a large, colorful mahi-mahi fish on a boat, with a man standing behind her with his arm around her shoulders. Both are dressed in casual fishing attire, and the man’s shirt has “Cabo San Lucas” printed on the sleeve. The boat's cabin and coolers are visible in the background, with calm water nearby.
Collin Strain
Estimator / Project Manager

Collin brings new energy to the Crete and Co. team, though his expertise in the construction industry is anything but new. His journey began with earning a Construction Management Engineering degree from NDSU. Over the span of 16 years, Collin served as Chief Estimator, Project Manager, and Vice President at two prominent highway heavy construction firms. Beyond his professional pursuits, Collin finds joy in hunting, fishing, woodworking, and traveling, alongside cherished moments with his wife Trisha and his two sons, Gannon and Connor. He also dedicates time as a volunteer for the Clearwater County Sheriffs reserve, and when called upon by Trisha, you might find him calling Bingo in Bagley!

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Ronald Stillday
Advanced Concrete Laborer

Ronald Stillday joined Crete and Co at the start of the 2024 season, bringing valuable construction experience in framing and hard landscaping. His passion for craftsmanship and reliability makes him a key member of our team. Outside of work, Ron’s hobbies include painting model cars, playing guitar, and competing in Xbox tournaments. He’s also a devoted family man, proudly raising eight children and celebrating life as a grandfather—his grandson recently turned one year old! Known affectionately as “Big Rig Ron” for his love of trucking, he plays a crucial role as our company transportation expert, keeping our operations running smoothly. A fun fact about Ron? He’s a dual citizen of the United States and Canada, adding international flair to our crew! We’re excited to have Ron’s experience, dedication, and energy driving success at Crete and Co.

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Shawnathan Peterson
Advanced Concrete Laborer

Shawnathan Peterson joined Crete and Co in 2024, bringing five years of valuable experience in residential and commercial damage restoration. A Bemidji High School graduate from the class of 2016 and the youngest sibling to two sisters, Shawnathan is passionate about hands-on craftsmanship and problem-solving. Outside of work, he enjoys collecting and working on automotive and motorcycle projects, photography, and staying active through golfing, basketball, hockey, and going to the gym. He finds the greatest joy in sharing these hobbies with close friends. Shawnathan’s enthusiasm, skill, and collaborative spirit make him a great addition to the Crete and Co team.

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Family of five sitting on a couch in a living room, smiling at the camera. The father is seated in the center wearing a blue “NY” shirt, flanked by four children of varying ages in casual clothing. A black labrador dog sits in the foreground on a patterned rug, looking up with its tongue out. Soft natural light comes through two large windows behind them.
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Alan Martin
Advanced Concrete Laborer

Alan Martin joined Crete and Co in 2023, bringing a lifetime of hands-on construction experience and a passion for craftsmanship. Growing up in International Falls, Minnesota, he was homeschooled and graduated in 2000. He spent his early years working alongside his father, building and remodeling houses in the community. Before returning to Minnesota, Alan worked with Tesla in California, where he appreciated contributing to environmental improvement efforts. A devoted father of four, Alan enjoys spending his free time playing golf, traveling, and watching movies. His move back to the Bemidji area was inspired by a desire to support his aging parents, helping with home maintenance and cutting firewood for winter. Alan’s dedication to family, community, and quality workmanship makes him a valued member of the Crete and Co team.

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Abram Anderson
Advanced Concrete Laborer

Abram became a valued member of the Crete and Co team in 2024, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a passion for construction. Prior to joining us, he ran his own custom carpentry business, where he honed his craftsmanship and business skills. Abram’s journey in construction began when he was just 13 years old, and his entrepreneurial spirit led him to start his first company at the age of 21. At 23, he embarked on his current career with Crete and Co, where his hands-on expertise and dedication continue to make a positive impact.

Beyond his professional life, Abram is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys hunting, fishing, and the thrill of motorcycle racing and stunting. His adventurous spirit and competitive edge are mirrored in his approach to both work and life. Growing up as the middle child in a large family of 13 siblings, he developed strong teamwork and leadership skills from an early age. An interesting and lesser-known fact about Abram is that he also has a creative side—he plays the ukulele, adding a musical touch to his dynamic personality.

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Jamesen Starr
Advanced Concrete Laborer

Jamesen joined the Crete And Co team in 2024 and works with us while attending Bemidji High School. Though his construction background is still developing, he has a strong work ethic and a passion for learning the trade. His skills have been shaped by hands-on experience, from tackling home improvement projects for his parents to learning the basics of welding. Whether it's a simple home repair or working on a concrete pour, Jamesen is always eager to expand his knowledge and contribute to the team.

Outside of work and school, Jamesen is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys hunting, fishing, boxing, and camping. He is the youngest of three siblings, with two older sisters. Two fun facts about Jamesen: he has competed in 15 boxing events and runs his own car detailing business, showcasing both his competitive spirit and entrepreneurial drive.

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Travis Dow
Advanced Concrete Laborer

Travis joined the Crete And Co team in 2024, bringing a strong background in education and community involvement. Before joining us, he worked at Red Lake High School, where he also graduated, serving as a paraprofessional supporting special education students and those with behavioral challenges. He also earned an associate degree from LLTC.

Travis has a deep passion for working with students, always eager to help in any way he can. Outside of work, he enjoys fishing, hunting, learning about his culture, singing powwow, going to the gym, and playing basketball. He values time with family and friends, especially gathering for cookouts and dinners. Travis and his girlfriend also love traveling to powwows and basketball tournaments across different states.

Proven Excellence, Recognized by Our Community

best-concrete-contractor-bemidji-awards
Hard work, precision, and dedication don’t go unnoticed.

Crete & Co. has been voted the Best Concrete Contractor in the Bemidji area for two years running (2022 & 2023), and we take that recognition seriously. Every pour, every foundation, every finish—we deliver work that stands the test of time, and our community knows it.