A Legacy of Loyalty: Inside the Story of Four Brothers at Kelleher – A Woodgrain Company
In the heart of Kelleher’s Sonoma yard in California, there’s a quiet force that keeps the operation running smoothly; a team within the team, bonded by more than just work. Meet Alberto Gonzalez, Jose Gonzalez, Juan Salvador, and Antonio Salvador: four brothers whose lasting presence and work ethic have helped define what teamwork looks like at Kelleher Sonoma.
They don’t work in offices or hold executive titles, but their impact is unmistakable. Whether loading trucks, organizing inventory, or leading warehouse teams, the brothers bring an unwavering commitment and an infectious positivity that sets the tone for everyone around them. They are proof that the foundation of a strong company culture often starts from the ground up.
Their story begins nearly three decades ago, when Antonio first joined Kelleher 29 years ago. A quiet, dependable presence in the yard, Antonio quickly became known for his reliability and team spirit. Over time, one by one, his brothers followed. First came Juan (24 years with Kelleher), who found in the company an opportunity to grow and lead. Then Alberto (19 years with the company), the perfectionist of the group, whose sharp eye for detail became a hallmark of his work. And finally, Jose (14 years with the company), who brought energy, humor, and a natural ability to lead.
“It all started with Antonio,” Jose recalls. “Then one by one we all joined the team.” For them, it wasn’t just about finding a job; it was about building something together.
Each of the brothers plays a different role in the yard. Antonio keeps things moving as a loader and receiver; Juan oversees the moulding warehouse; Alberto manages the outside yard; and Jose leads the lumber warehouse and is a champion of safety. But no matter the title, they approach each day with the same mindset: work hard, stay grounded, and lift each other up. As Jose puts it, “We join our knowledge and skills to get it done.” And together, they do just that, setting the standard for teamwork across the yard.
Ask any of them what a typical day looks like, and the answer is almost always the same: busy. “Busy from start to finish,” says Jose, “but busy is good.” For Juan, it’s about preparation and follow-through. “I make sure everything is well organized,” he says. “Then we start working, and I make sure everything is done on time.” It’s this consistency and discipline that make their team so dependable, a quality customers and coworkers alike have come to rely on.
But beyond their work ethic is something deeper: the pride they take in one another. When asked how they’d describe their brothers, both Jose and Juan spoke with warmth and admiration. Jose says, “Antonio gives 100% all day every day, and he gets the job done. Alberto is a perfectionist. Juan is a leader.” Juan echoes the sentiment: “Jose is a quick learner and a leader. Alberto likes to do everything perfect. Antonio is such a nice guy and is always around to help.”
There’s an ease to the way they talk about each other. No competitiveness, no ego, just mutual respect and a deep understanding that only family (and time) can build. “Working with my brothers is the most beautiful experience I’ve ever had,” Juan says. “We know each other well, and we make sure to get everything done.” Jose agrees: “It’s great. We all bring something to the table.”
Outside of work, they’re still together, spending time with their kids and extended family. “We are family people,” says Juan. “We spend most of our time with our kids and family.” It’s that same loyalty and connection they bring into the yard each morning, and it’s felt by everyone around them.
To the rest of the team at Kelleher Sonoma, these four brothers are more than just long-time employees. They are leaders, mentors, and the kind of teammates who lead not with words, but with example. They’ve helped shape the culture here: one of respect, teamwork, and heart. And while their story may have started with one job offer years ago, what they’ve built together is something far greater: a legacy.