Source: Norwich Bulletin: May 7, 2019 at 9:50 pm
Tom Kazprzak, left, who was honored with the Life Time Achievement Community Service Award, is joined by others honored including Alison Keating, Suzanne Colon and Jenny Kitsen, all of Donate Life Ct, Lori Dufficy of Chelsea Groton Bank, Bob Reed of Hall Communications and Jonathan Duncklee of Duncklee Cooling & Heating Tuesday at the Connecticut Rivers Council, BSA 24th annual Outstanding Leadership Award Dinner at the Spa at Norwich Inn.
Duncklee Cooling and Heating was originally known as L.H. Duncklee Refrigeration, Inc. Under the leadership and vision of the late founder Les Duncklee, the company was located on the corner of Route 1 and Masons Island Road in Mystic for more than 20 years. Les learned refrigeration in the United States Navy, and with great courage, enthusiasm and perseverance, he took the risk of starting a business while raising his young family in the 1970’s. When Les started the family-owned business in 1973, he was fueled by an entrepreneurial spirit and a desire to create a business environment founded on professionalism, integrity, high-quality customer service, and fostering employee security. Within one year, he was able to move the business from his home in Pawcatuck to an office building, and hired his first employee. Over the next 40 years, the business experienced many changes, but Les’ vision stayed the same: to provide customers with premier installation design and specialized customer service. Over the years, Les’ leap of faith grew into a successful business that continued to thrive, surpassing his expectations. He was proud of his business and proud of his team. He shared his encouragement and respect on a daily basis both for his team and his son Jonathan, whom he supported when it was time to make changes and help the company grow in new directions. Les regularly inspired and motivated his team to live the American dream.