River City Six – Dennis Herr
Meet Dennis Herr, plumber at Big Birge Plumbing.
Tell us a little about your business?
Big Birge Plumbing offers commercial and residential plumbing services in the Omaha area. Whether you need help with a kitchen or bathroom remodel, water heater repair, gas or water piping, or the really fun stuff like drain cleaning and clogged toilets, our team is up for the job, bringing with us 140 years of combined experience! The owners, Brad and Lallenia Birge, started the company in 2012. They are passionate about redefining the customer service experience through every plumbing job we do.
How did you get started in the business?
After High School, I saw an ad in the local news paper for a common labor position doing plumbing work. I was offered the job, and—fast forward 43 years—I’m still working in the plumbing business.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?
Being the project foreman for the hydronic heating and plumbing system on a multi-million dollar expansion. We were tasked with joining three existing buildings into one large building, which meant a lot of repiping and wiring.
What has been your most important achievement professionally?
Back when I owned my own plumbing company (before working for Big Birge Plumbing), I learned how to communicate more efficiently with customers in a way that they could understand plumbing projects in layman’s terms.
Tell us a little about your family.
My wife’s name is Sheri Jo (JoJo). I have two sons, one daughter, and one step-son. Their names are Colin, Cole, Kelsey, and Chad, respectively. I also have three grandsons—Riggs, Chandler, and Benny.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?
Marrying JoJo.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
Being with my family, having cookouts and camping, and playing golf. In the winter time, I enjoy laying on the couch and watching a good movie.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know?
I played trombone in a rock n’ roll brass band in the late 70s. We played at many dances and proms.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
“If it was easy, anyone could do it.” It’s something my plumbing mentor Ed Willems said many times.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be?
Honest.
If you had a theme song, what would it be?
“You Ain’t Seen Nothing Yet” by Bachman–Turner Overdrive.
If you could have a super power, what would it be?
The powers Samantha had in the show Bewitched.
What is your greatest talent that you don’t utilize in your daily work life?
Electrical and automotive skills.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?
United Way and the Elks Club.
What is your favorite movie?
Gran Torino.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be?
Mickey Mantle.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
(402) 575-0102; www.bigbirgeplumbing.com.