About Us
The Shoner Story
Shoner Plumbing and Mechanical is a steadily growing small business rooted in years of experience passed down through generations.
Our Founder
Robert Shoner II
Robert Shoner II is the President and part-owner of Shoner Plumbing and Mechanical LLC. His commitment to quality service and deep roots in the mechanical trades form the foundation of our company.
"Over the years, this company has not only been able to provide exceptional service, but also has been fortunate enough to create connections and give back to the communities that have helped support its growth."
A Career Built on Quality Service
Robert began his plumbing and mechanical career at 18, showing early dedication that inspires trust and confidence in his expertise. He recognized early on that quality service requires more than just technical skill—it requires an understanding of what works best for the customer. This belief in a customer-first philosophy laid the groundwork for his future venture.
The Launch of Shoner Plumbing and Mechanical LLC
Having always dreamed of becoming his own boss, Robert took a bold step during a challenging period for many. It was during the peak of the global pandemic, in October 2020, that he decided to take a risk, walk away from his job, and start his own company. He recognized this as a time when people needed help they could rely on, and saw the opportunity to be that trustworthy resource for his community. Shoner Plumbing and Mechanical LLC began with humble beginnings. Operating out of the basement of his home, and with the help of his father and a close friend, Robert set out to make a significant mark not only in his community but also in the plumbing and mechanical services industry.
Growth and Gratitude
The journey of a small business required perseverance and personal sacrifices, but Robert's determination led to rapid success and expansion. Within just one year, the company moved out of the basement and into a dedicated shop warehouse. By 2023, the company had grown significantly enough to move into a larger facility. In 2026, it moved into an even bigger and newer facility yet again, with no intention of stopping its growth and expansion. Robert is deeply grateful for this growth and recognizes the vital support from his community, friends, and employees. He also sincerely thanks his wife and three wonderful children, whose unwavering support has been essential throughout this journey.
Focusing on What Comes Next
Over the years, Shoner Plumbing and Mechanical LLC has not only provided exceptional service but has also been fortunate to build connections and give back to the communities that have supported and valued its growth. Robert Shoner II looks to the future with great appreciation for those who have come before and those who are here now, striving to continue a legacy of proud, quality service for many years to come.
The Father
Robert "Bob" Shoner I
Robert Shoner I is part-owner of Shoner Plumbing and Mechanical LLC and the father of Robert Shoner II. His belief in a no-nonsense approach to getting the job done has instilled the solid work ethic that he and his children carry into their own lives.
"I believe the most important part of my job is providing service in a timely manner. When I show up to work, nothing else matters than to get the job done."
Years of Experience
Starting his career as a teenager, Bob demonstrates early dedication. Getting his start as a plumber at a parts manufacturer, he would enter the world of plumbing from there, continuing to grow his skills and gain experience. After obtaining his Plumbing License, Bob's travels to places like Lansing and Ohio highlight his adaptability and commitment to professional growth. Bob was a plumber for 30 years at the same company and thus understands the importance of maintaining a consistent work ethic to achieve success—a work ethic he proudly instills in his children.
Joining the Start of Something New
In 2020, Bob was approached by his eldest son, Robert the Second, with a business proposition. It was time to create a place where they could call the shots on what truly mattered for their coworkers, now employees, and their customers. Bob had no doubt that, with his years of expertise and his son's drive and dedication, they were beginning a journey toward success.
Rest Assured
With the continued growth and success of Shoner Plumbing and Mechanical LLC, Bob feels at ease about what lies ahead. The newfound freedom to step back and release himself from the pressures of day-to-day operations opens the door to a new sense of possibility about what retirement may look like. With Bob passing along his teachings and with his son's capabilities, the future of Shoner Plumbing and Mechanical LLC remains bright.
The Grandfather
Sylvester "Ron" Shoner
Sylvester Ronald Shoner, otherwise known as Grandpa Ron, is a man who has spent many years building a life around plumbing. Watching the creation and expansion of Shoner Plumbing and Mechanical LLC fills Ron with a great sense of pride, knowing this is a form of legacy he has helped create.
"When I started my apprenticeship way back in 1961, I never would've imagined I would be a part of generations of Shoner plumbers continuing to grow in success for years to come."
The 1960s
On May 25th, 1961, Sylvester (Ron) & Nancy Shoner were married. Shortly after, Ron began working for Boone & Darr on June 10, 1961, at the age of 19. His first check, for 53.4 regular hours at $2.22 & 1/2 cents per hour, was received a few weeks later on June 28. In the following months, on September 6, 1961, Sylvester "Ron" Shoner officially became an apprentice. For the next few years, Ron would continue his training through Boone & Darr and the Washtenaw Community College Training Program. After nearly 4 years learning and growing in the trade, Ron traveled to Grand Rapids, Michigan, to participate in the Twelfth Annual Apprentice Pipe Traders State Contest. Finally, in December 1965, he received his Licensed Journeyman Plumber certificate issued by the State Plumbing Board of Michigan, beginning his career as a licensed plumber.
Not Quite the Beginning
The truth is, the Shoner plumbing legacy doesn't just begin with Grandpa Ron. In fact, it was his uncle, Ernie, who introduced Ron to the possibilities of a future in plumbing. Uncle Ernie completed his apprenticeship at the Ford Motor Company after the war, and it is from there that the true Shoner legacy originates. Ernie not only encouraged Ron to pursue a career in this field but also encouraged his own children and Ron's brothers to do the same. Thus, this encouragement has influenced the future plumbers trickling down through the generations.
Grandkids and the Greats
After all these years, Ron looks back on his life with a sense of satisfaction for the work he's done. He carries gratitude for all the good times he's had and the memories he's made with his family. Being married for over 65 years has brought many joyous occasions and many challenges. Still, above all else, it has brought a lot of love, including two children, many grandchildren, and even more great-grandchildren. Ron and Nancy have not only built a life for themselves but have also created a lasting family legacy for their grands and their greats. Nancy and Ron hope these years of history they have collected will be passed down and truly cherished by future generations. Ron may not know what the future holds, but he is truly honored to have been given the gift of time and the opportunity to see the full potential of a company his grandson founded.
The Legacy
