Mike received a Bachelor of Science degree in Wood Technology from Northern Illinois University. While serving in the Navy, he studied oriental furniture design in Japan and contemporary furniture design on the West Coast. After completing a seven-year apprenticeship under his father's guidance in the cabinet making business, Mike founded Der Holtzmacher, Ltd. in 1978 and is the President of the company.
Our company was co-founded by Mike's wife, Barbara, who holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Education, as well as Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts degrees in Art History from Northern Illinois University. She is the Vice President of our company and collaborates with Mike on residential and liturgical projects.
Mike's commitment to quality and Old World craftsmanship has earned him several awards. He has been designing custom liturgical furnishings, cabinetry, and one-of-a-kind furniture pieces for our clients for over 20 years. Mike uses only the finest, hand-selected hardwoods available in his work to ensure a quality product.
You can read more about Mike's knowledge of woodworking by reviewing the 255 page Shaper Handbook which he co-authored in 1990 with Dr. Roger Cliffe, published by Sterling Publishing Co., Inc. of New York.
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